Some symptoms of a car alternator failure include dim headlights, a drained battery, or the inability to start the vehicle. The alternator powers all aspects of the electrical system once the engine is running.
unstable idling and battery indicator lights on.
Car won't start.
If it is a "physical" failure, it'll likely be the bearings that give out - and most times, most bearings will start making a groaning or humming type sound. If the failure is electrical in nature, it is common for there to be no sounds or symptoms like that to give you fair warning. Low voltage resulting is things like starting problems, battery not charging, dimming lights, will be common symptoms of a failed alternator.
Symptoms
Same as any other car. No spark at the spark plugs, and car won't start.
Bearings can fail or a diode can burn out. Age is the enemy of an alternator.
i have a 1993 Toyota Camry and I'm having a problem with the alternator whenever i start the engine the voltage is at 13.5 volts a few minutes later voltage drops between 11.5 to 12.7 volts,i had the same problem 6 months ago with the same car and when i was going to replace the alternator the belt turned out to be have cracks on it,so instead of replacing the alternator i replaced the belt and that fixed the problem,but i don't think is the belt this time any good answer that could help?
Battery not being kept charged. Drive the car to most Auto Parts stores. They will check the alternator for free. Or, if you have a multimeter, check the voltage at the battery terminals with the engine running. Should be from 13.5-15 volts.
Symptoms: Besides having a dead battery.......... If you charge or jumpstart your vehice's battery and successfully get it running to only have it mysteriously die and have no lights, radio, etc.; it is probably you alternator. If your vehicle will run constantly on it's own, but will not start after shutting it off, it could be your battery. If your battery will hold a charge on it's own, but goes dead a while after you start and run your vehicle, it is probably your alternator. Or, if you can get it running, it should have an alternator light that will come on when there is a problem. I would almost bet your car has one... my 1970 ford does.
Malfunctioning alternator, malfunctionining fuse panel, short in the main power wires, ECM failure... take your pick.
an alternator recharges the battery of your car
The alternator of a car is responsible for charging the car battery. Someone who repairs a broken alternator ensures that the alternator works again and continues to keep the car battery charged.