Generator problem

A broken or damaged alternator will be visible while driving around the world with a battery symbol.

The alternator is an alternator connected to the crankshaft by a V-ribbed belt or V-belt that transmits the drive. Its task is to supply the car's electrical system with energy and charge the battery while driving. When the vehicle is stationary and the alternator is not running, the energy stored in the battery while driving is used to start the engine. The battery supplies electricity to the installation, for example, when listening to the radio with the engine off. Obviously, the energy previously generated by the alternator.

– That is why its work is crucial for the correct operation of the car. With a damaged alternator, the car will only be able to drive as far as the energy stored in the battery is sufficient. Then the electricity goes out and the car just stops,” explains Stanisław Plonka, an auto mechanic from Rzeszów.

Since the alternator produces alternating current, a rectifier circuit is necessary for its design. It is he who is responsible for obtaining direct current at the output of the device. To maintain a constant voltage in the battery, on the contrary, its regulator is used, which maintains the charging voltage at 13,9-14,2V for 12-volt installations and 27,9-28,2V for 24-volt installations. The surplus in relation to the rated voltage of the battery is necessary to ensure its charge. As Kazimierz Kopec from a service center in Rzeszów explains, in alternators, bearings, slip rings and governor brushes most often wear out.

- Cars with engines that are problematic with oil and working fluid leaks are most susceptible to it. External factors, such as water or salt entering the engine compartment from the road, also contribute to faster wear of the generator parts, explains Kazimierz Kopec.

In most car services, a complete generator regeneration costs between PLN 70 and 100. For this amount, the part is dismantled, cleaned and equipped with new components that are used to replace damaged parts.

- The signal for a visit to the mechanic should be a charging indicator that does not go out after starting the engine. Or it lights up temporarily while driving, and then goes out after a while. Friction noises, which usually indicate the need to replace worn bearings, should also be a concern, explains Kopets.

Repairs always pay off, new generators at an authorized service station are very expensive. For example, for a 2,2-liter Honda Accord i-CTDI, such a part costs more than PLN 2. zloty.

– Buying used parts is a big risk. While vendors usually provide a start-up warranty and can be returned if problems occur, you never know how long a generator like this will last, says Plonka.