Some noises coming from the engine can be a sign of a bad alternator. There are various noises that an alternator produces, depending on the faulty part. Some of these noises include; a whining noise which is a pitched noise you get when the engine is running; the noise increases as the vehicle accelerates. Others are grinding noise, squeaking, knocking, and more. All these noises indicate something is wrong with your alternator, and you should learn how to fix each, as explained in the guide below.
Why is My Alternator Making a Whining Noise?
Here are some major reasons why your alternator is making whining noise;
- Steering wheel- the power in your steering wheel could cause noise. If the noise comes when taking a turn, it could be the following;
- Damage to the steering belt- replace the belt
- The steering belt is loose- tighten the steering belt
- Fluid leak in the power steering system- seek professional help
- Transmission problem- visit a mechanic
- Low oil – causes whining noise when the car is idling. Get an oil change from your mechanic.
- Stuck valve- cause the noise when the vehicle is idling. Visit a mechanic for repair.
- Transmission problem- the issue cause whining noise when the vehicle is accelerating. The issue can result de to the following;
- Oil leak causing low fluid
- Worn out gears
- Low power steering fluid
- Damaged piston
- Worn out alternator bearings
- Bad AC compressor
The damaged parts should get replaced to solve the issue. Also, have a synthetic oil change to solve the low fluid.
How Does a Bad Alternator Bearing Sound Like?
Bad alternator bearings make a squeaky and grinding noise. The bearings work is to rotate the rotor that produces electrical power in a vehicle. When dirt and heat accumulate around the alternator, it causes the bearings to fail and make a noise. How do you fix a squeaky alternator noise?
- Turn off the running car engine and examine your alternator bearings. Avoid putting your finger in the alternator as the engine is running.
- Open the car hood and find the fan belt, then remove it.
- Try to rotate the alternator using your hand. Also, feel the bearings as they turn. If they produce the squeaky sound as they rotate, replace them.
- If the sounds persist, the issue could be the alternator belt.
Alternator Noise When Accelerating
When your car makes noise when accelerating, it’s most likely the transmission is at fault. The whining noise caused when accelerating is due to transmission issues like worn-out gears or low transmission fluid due to a leak. The noise when accelerating may also result from;
- Low power steering fluid
- Damaged alternator bearings
- Malfunctioning water pump
- Broken piston
- A fault Ac compressor
High Pitch Noise from Alternator
The high-pitched noise occurs when your car is warming due to a loose or worn-out fan belt. The best solution is to replace the worn-out belt and tighten the loose fan belt. It’s best to solve the issue as soon as possible, as a faulty belt could lead to the following;
- Difficulty steering- especially when making a turn, is risky when driving at high speeds.
- Battery light – a faulty belt triggers low battery light, and your battery dies more quickly.
- Overheating – the belt powers the water pump to cool the engine, so when it’s failing, the car runs hot.
How Does a Dead Alternator Sound Like?
A dead alternator will have various sounds depending on what causing it to fail. For example, it may have grinding sounds that are consistent even after correcting the issue. Again, if the problem that caused the alternator to fail was with brushes, they will keep squeaking. So, depending on which part of the alternator fails, you may experience all kinds of sounds.
Check this too: How To Test An Alternator Diode
How Do You Fix a Noisy Alternator?
- Replace or tighten the alternator belt as necessary, making sure the belt aligns on the pulley.
- Ensuring the bolts have a snug, secure fit for proper charging of the system.
- Replacing the alternator bearings if worn out, adjusting them, or even replacing the alternator itself.
Other Alternator Noises
- Knocking noise- can occur when a broken belt flap around the engine and comes into contact with other parts. Also, a loose belt moves around as the engine runs.
- Squeaking- a sign that an alternator is going bad. The sound can increase the engine reaches higher RPMs. The sound can still occur when you turn the alternator pulley, and the car is off.