What are the symptoms of an HS generator?

The generator is an important part for the manufacture start the car ! Replacing a generator can be very expensive quickly, so it is important to fully understand the signs that indicate your generator has failed. We'll explain everything in this article!

?? What are the symptoms of a faulty generator?

1 - Intensity Lights not optimal

If your vehicle's exterior (or even interior) lighting changes, or if the headlights are shining at a low intensity, the alternator is likely having trouble generating continuous power.

2 - You hear an unusual noise

Here are 3 options:

• If there is a hissing sound when starting up, it may be an electrical malfunction;
• If it is knocking, squealing, or whining, it is probably a faulty rotor bearing;
• If the sound of the belt is heard, then it is too loose or too worn.

In all cases, the generator is undoubtedly the victim of a breakdown.

3 - You smell like burnt rubber

This smell is never a good sign and can indicate a malfunctioning generator: the belt gets hot and can break at any time!

4 - Your power window raises slowly

A window that rises too slowly is just one example of a power failure. It can also be:

• Mirrors that fold slowly or don't fold at all;
• Incorrectly working cockpit console;
• An electric sunroof that opens with all its might ...

5 - Battery indicator is on constantly

If the battery indicator on the dashboard stays on, this is a bad sign. This could mean that the battery is overheating due to overload, or that it has been pulled from an alternator to provide electricity.

The battery should not be the source of electricity for your vehicle while driving, but it can happen if your generator stops working. To make sure it is a generator and not a battery, test it.

🚗 How to check the generator?

If in doubt, you can test your vehicle's alternator. Here are a few steps to take to test your generator.

Necessary equipment: voltmeter, protective gloves.

Step 1: open the hood

Take a voltmeter and open the hood, then plug in the voltmeter. Connect the red wire from the voltmeter to the positive terminal of the battery and the black wire to the negative terminal.

Step 2: turn on the ignition

Press the accelerator, and if your voltmeter does not reach 15 volts, that means you need to replace the alternator.

🔧 What to do in the event of a generator failure?

In most cases, you will have to change your generator... It is recommended to entrust this to a professional due to the complexity of the intervention.

Consider at least € 100–150 and no more than € 600 for a new generator. A cost to which you need to add about 2 hours of labor.

Get a quote for your vehicle using our garage comparator.

Watch out for these 5 signs that could indicate your generator is failing! In any case, do not drive after the warning, you risk breaking down and you will have to pay for a tow truck. Before getting there, make an appointment with one of our Reliable mechanics.