You will notice a ton of problems if you’re Porsche’s alternator is going bad. There isn’t anything to worry about, however. Eurotech Auto Service & Repair can replace the faulty alternator when it needs it. Generally, you can expect to get 100,000 to 150,000 miles out of the factory-installed alternator. If you drive a high-mileage Porsche, you will need to replace the alternator sooner rather than later. Here are signs it is time for a new alternator in your Porsche or other European automobile.
Dashboard Warning Light
If the ALT, GEN, or battery-shaped light illuminates on your dashboard and refuses to turn off, this is a sign that there is a problem with the vehicle’s electrical system that could be related to the alternator. It’s important to have any dashboard warning light investigated right away to avoid damaging your Porsche.
Burning Rubber or Wire Odors
The maximum voltage the alternator generates is 14.5 volts. When an alternator starts to go bad, it works overtime to try to generate voltage. Unfortunately, this overheats your Porsche’s electrical system. As a result, you may smell burning rubber or wire odors coming from the engine. Burning smells indicate a dangerous risk of an engine fire, so don’t drive your Porsche.
Dim or Bright Lights
The alternator helps to power all of your Porsche’s lights. If the alternator is dying, the lights may seem overly bright, too dim, or they may flicker from bright to dim. You will notice this problem with all of the lights in your Porsche. It’s easier to detect this problem at night when you are trying to see with the headlights and when you rely on the dashboard light.
Growling or Whining Sounds
Growling sounds coming from your engine are an indication that the alternator’s internal mechanisms are wearing down and grinding against each other. The alternator is also attached to the accessory belt to help it generate power. If you hear whining sounds, this is an indication there’s a problem with the belt.
Hard Starts/No Starts
You may find it difficult to get your Porsche started if the alternator is not sending enough power to the battery. As the battery discharges, the alternator charges it. If the battery has died because the alternator is dead, you won’t be able to start your automobile.
Malfunctioning Accessories
Finally, the alternator provides power to all of your Porsche’s electrical accessories. If you are having problems with things like your power windows and entertainment system, it’s possible that the alternator is no longer providing the power these accessories need.
Call Eurotech Auto Service & Repair in Fort Myers, FL, today if you believe your Porsche’s alternator is going bad. We can test it and replace it if necessary.