Back to all

Your Vehicle's Other Power Plant (Alternator Replacement)

March 2, 2025

Your vehicle's engine is probably the first thing that comes to mind when you think of a power plant.  But it has another power source that is vital as well: the alternator.

The alternator is what puts out the electricity that powers such things as your lights, power windows, sound system, and navigation.  Maybe you've started seeing those electrical components behaving in strange ways.  Maybe your power windows are going up and down a little bit more slowly than they used to.  Or perhaps your engine doesn't start as easily or is misfiring.  

Other signs of a failing alternator are headlights that are either brighter or dimmer than usual.  If your battery keeps going dead, it could be that the alternator isn't recharging it.  

The alternator has to get its power from somewhere, and in vehicles with internal combustion engines, that power comes from a drive belt powered by the engine.  Sometimes that belt can fail.  If you hear a whining sound, it could mean bearings in the alternator aren't turning as freely as they used to. You could even notice a burning smell.  Oh, and when you see your battery light illuminated on your dash (it looks like a rectangle with a - and + inside), it may be warning you that your alternator is not healthy.

Bring your vehicle in to us for a diagnosis if you notice any of these symptoms.  If your alternator is bad, we can recommend a new or remanufactured one to replace it.  Some new alternators are warranted for life and remanufactured units usually are guaranteed as well.  

It's important to your vehicle's health to have its alternator putting out the right power consistently.  It may not be as well known as the other power plant under the hood, but it's a vital part of helping your vehicle run the way it is designed to.  

Mustang Automotive
1600 E State Hwy 152
Mustang, Oklahoma 73064
405-745-4826
http://www.mustangautomotiveinc.com

Need Service?

Request a Quote

More articles from Mustang Automotive

Know Your Towing Limits in Mustang

July 14, 2025

Some Mustang drivers figure that anything they can attach to their trailer hitch can be towed by their vehicle. Nope. If you're going to do any towing around Mustang, you should be aware of safety issues, Oklahoma towing laws and potential liability.Understanding tow ratings is important for safe... More

Before You Buy that Used Vehicle (Having a Used Car Inspected Before Buying)

July 7, 2025

Let's face it. New vehicles are expensive, so finding a good used one can save drivers a lot of money. It's tempting to look through ads, find a private seller who has what you're looking for and pay a price you think is a great deal. But when you go over to look at a used car, do you really k... More

Tracking True in Mustang: Wheel Alignment

June 30, 2025

At Mustang Automotive, we occasionally see severe tire damage that could have been prevented with proper wheel alignment. During a Mustang Automotive alignment service, your vehicle is put on an alignment rack where the tires, steering and suspension parts are inspected for problems. Then the al... More