Skip to main content

AUTONET TV


A Non-Starter (Alternator Problems in Cold Weather)

Posted February 25, 2024 9:57 AM

As the temperatures dip, we all know there could be problems starting our vehicles. After all, batteries can grow old and not hold a charge as well as when they were newer. Or starters can go bad.  But there's one more component to keep an especially sharp eye on during winter: your alternator.

The alternator is sort of like a small generator. It sends power out to various parts in your vehicle that need electricity.  That includes the battery, which needs charging to keep its power topped off.  The alternator creates electricity by taking mechanical energy from the engine and turning it into electricity.  It is connected to the engine by belts and pulleys. 

In cold weather, the material the belt is made from is less flexible than it is in warm weather.  That means it may not be turning the pulleys as effectively since it doesn't have the same grip. Also, when it's colder, lubricants, including the engine oil, are a little stiffer and parts just don't move like they do when the weather's warmer.  With that extra strain, sometimes it takes the alternator longer to recharge the battery. That, in turn, may leave the battery a little less power to start the engine when it's cold.

You may have a warning light on your instrument panel that looks like a battery.  If it lights up or if you notice your headlights flickering or not shining quite as brightly as they usually do, it could mean a weak alternator. But it also could be an aging battery, corroded battery terminals, a loose belt or another charging system part. Yes, it's complicated. 

Pinpointing the cause involves testing the battery and charging system with diagnostic equipment.  If it does turn out to be an alternator, there are options besides replacing it with a brand new, original equipment part.  Ask your service advisor for recommendations. Obviously, you want your vehicle to start reliably, especially in cold weather.  Take care of your charging system and it will take care of you.

East Coast Automotive Services
134 Fern St
Jupiter, FL 33458
(561) 743-1178
http://www.eastcoastautoservices.com



Search



Archive

September 2020 (17)
October 2020 (4)
November 2020 (5)
December 2020 (4)
January 2021 (6)
February 2021 (4)
March 2021 (4)
April 2021 (4)
May 2021 (5)
June 2021 (4)
July 2021 (4)
August 2021 (5)
September 2021 (4)
October 2021 (5)
November 2021 (4)
December 2021 (4)
January 2022 (6)
February 2022 (4)
March 2022 (4)
April 2022 (4)
May 2022 (5)
June 2022 (4)
July 2022 (5)
August 2022 (4)
September 2022 (4)
October 2022 (5)
November 2022 (4)
December 2022 (4)
January 2023 (5)
February 2023 (4)
March 2023 (4)
April 2023 (5)
May 2023 (4)
June 2023 (4)
July 2023 (5)
August 2023 (4)
September 2023 (4)
October 2023 (5)
November 2023 (4)
December 2023 (5)
January 2024 (5)
February 2024 (4)
March 2024 (4)

Categories

Air Conditioning (4)Alignment (4)Alternator (3)Auto Safety (5)Automotive News (4)Battery (8)Brakes (10)Cabin Air Filter (3)Check Engine Light (1)Cooling System (7)Diagnostics (2)Differential Service (1)Drive Train (4)Exhaust (5)Fluids (6)Fuel Economy (7)Fuel Pump (1)Fuel Saving Tip: Slow Down (2)Fuel System (20)Inspection (2)Keys to a long lasting vehicle (3)Maintenance (16)Monitoring System (3)Oil Change (3)Older Vehicles (1)Parts (2)Safety (2)Service Intervals (1)Service Standards (3)Shocks & Struts (4)Steering (5)Suspension (1)Timing Belt (2)Tire Rotation and Balancing (1)Tires (2)Tires and Wheels (16)TPMS (3)Transmission (2)Trip Inspection (1)What Customers Should Know (25)Wheel Bearings (1)Windshield Wipers (1)Winter Prep (2)

image-people-driving

OUR REVIEWS

 (199 Reviews)
image-quotes
reviewicon

I’m new to the area and needed somebody to work on my truck. Not only did they fit me into their busy schedule and around mine to take care of my needs , they also are very knowledgeable , super honest and extremely fair. By far the best in the business. Thank you

, 03/06/2024

join our team

We are currently on the lookout for the following:

  • Technicians
  • General Employment
  • partners

    ACDelco
    ASE (Automotive Service Excellence)
    Nationwide
    continental
    General
    Car Care Aware