How to Troubleshoot Volvo S40 Alternator Problems in Kalamazoo?

In general, the charging system of the Volvo contains 3 components such as the battery, voltage regulator, and alternator for running it efficiently. Among them, an alternator is located near the front of the engine for charging the battery while driving the vehicle

Moreover, it is generally receiving the power from the crankshaft to convert the mechanical energy into electrical energy for providing power to several electrical systems such as the radio, headlights, windscreen wipers, and many more. When the alternator of the Volvo S40 has any problems, it will cause many electrical problems.

How the alternator does works?

The main responsibility of the alternator in your Volvo is to maintain the charge of the battery. While driving the vehicle, the alternator is generating electricity from the engine by a drive belt and sends that energy to the battery for keeping it fully charged. So, before the process makes sure that the belt is tight enough.

Thus, the alternator is converting the direct current (DC) into alternating current (AC) to generate electricity through a stator and rotor because the battery and other electrical components use the AC for running.

Then the generated electricity moves to the battery to run the electrical systems. If the alternator is failed, then the battery is unable to get its charge and drain in a couple of minutes because the electrical systems take its power for functioning. So, keep the alternator in the best possible conditions.

Common alternator problems

When the alternator is failed, you will notice several problems in your Volvo S40. The following points define the common alternator problems found in the vehicle.

Starting difficulties

When the alternator of your car has any problems, you will experience starting difficulties more frequently. The reason behind this is the battery is not getting enough charge due to the bad alternator and the lack of power unable to turn the engine.

On the other hand, when the failed alternator is not providing enough electricity to the spark plugs for running the engine may cause engine stalling. Subsequently, a bad battery or a failed fuel pump also causes trouble starting in the car. So, consult a mechanic for determining the main causes behind the problem.

Flickering warning light

Like the other signs, the warning light is the common indicator of alternator problems in the car. If you will notice an activated alternator warning light on the dashboard, then check your car to a mechanic immediately.

Generally, the voltage output of the alternator is lying between 13V and 14.5V. But, several electrical systems are putting a load in it and force it to work harder. If the voltage is defined either above or below the set level, then it will flicker the alternator warning light.

Strange noises

While running the Volvo S40, it will produce a lot of noises in which few of them are normal and others indicate serious problems that need immediate repair. Unaligned alternator pulley with the drive belt or the worn alternator bearings produce whining noise from the car and need an immediate inspection of the alternator.

Neglecting the noises for so long may damage the engine. So, when you notice these types of noises from your Volvo bring it to a mechanic for determining the severity of the problem.

Unusual smells

When the alternator is working very hard or overheated, it will fail the electrical systems and produce some unusual noises from the engine. Moreover, if you hear the strange noises from the car with a burning rubber smell, then check the alternator belt which is under constant tension and wearing out over time.

On the other hand, the burned alternator wires also produce electrical fire smells from the engine. So, inspect the alternator as soon as possible for preventing major damages.

Way to troubleshoot the alternator problems

If the alternator of your Volvo S40 has any problems, then you can troubleshoot the problem in the following ways.

Perform a visual inspection

During this phase, you have to perform a visual inspection of the belt, tension, electrical connections, and cables of the alternator by determining the corrosion and cracked parts. After that, fix the relevant problems with a professional mechanic.

Inspect and test the batteries

For determining the fluid leakage, cracks, and unfastened terminals check the battery. If you found any types of damages in the battery, try to fix it as early as possible. Apparently, perform the battery test to determine the current charging condition of the battery and ensuring that it is supplying energy properly.

Perform a voltage test

The most effective way to troubleshoot the alternator problems in your Volvo is by measuring the battery voltage by a Voltmeter while running the engine. If the voltage is higher or equal to 13.8 volts, then test the alternator output.

Moreover, the voltage less than 13.8 volts indicate the voltage at the alternator ground case. Due to any reason, if the voltage is lying between 12.6V and 13.7V, then change the alternator by a professional mechanic.

Test the alternator output

Through the alternator output test, you can easily determine that the alternator is providing enough electrical power for handling the electrical loads and maintain its battery charge. During the test, the amp output needs to be at least 90%. If it does not have that rated output, then replace the alternator with a new one.

Conclusion

If you are unable to troubleshoot any problem within your alternator through the above-defined steps, then consult a mechanic to determine and fix it efficiently. People living in Kalamazoo can fix alternator problems of their Volvo S40 at an affordable cost by consulting with their local mechanic.

If you are searching for a best car repair shop, then we at Master Mechanics Auto Repair located in Kilgore Rd Kalamazoo, Michigan provide full-service auto repair for European, Asian and domestic makes & models. All our technicians are ASE certified