Car Dies While Idling Alternator- Issues Explained

Last Updated on May 10, 2024 by Azim Uddin

Have you ever encountered your car unexpectedly stalling during idle? A possible reason for this problem is a faulty alternator. The alternator is essential for both charging the battery and providing power to the car’s electrical systems.

So why does a car die while idling due to an alternator? A failed alternator, whether due to the voltage regulator or internally, causes the electrical system to start drawing power from the battery. Once the battery is depleted, the vehicle loses power to run the vehicle.

In this article, we’ll discuss the vital role of the alternator in your vehicle’s electrical system, its operation, and the outcomes when it malfunctions.

How Does Alternator Work?

The alternator is vital for a car’s charging system, converting mechanical energy to electrical energy. It charges the battery and powers the car’s electrical components during operation. This is done by using a drive belt connected to the engine and turning a pulley attached to the alternator.

The rotor shaft, activated by the pulley, spins magnets within a coil, creating alternating current (AC). A rectifier then converts the AC to direct current (DC) before channeling it to the battery.

Why Car Dies While Idling Alternator?

When the alternator fails, whether internally or due to the voltage regulator, the electrical system will begin to draw power from the battery. Once the battery is depleted, the vehicle loses power to run the vehicle.

If the battery is drained, there is adequate power for features like lights and the radio. However, it is insufficient to fulfill the complete electrical needs of the vehicle. There are other reasons that can cause a car to stall while idling, such as:

• Broken oxygen or mass airflow sensor
• Blocked EGR valve
• Worn-out spark plugs
• Issue with the idle air control actuator
• Problems with the fuel delivery system
• Transmission not working properly
•  Damaged torque converter
• The gas gauge is not functioning.

Even if the alternator fails completely, the engine can run on battery power for a short distance until the battery depletes entirely.

To check the alternator, ensure it produces approximately 14 volts across the battery terminals while the engine is running.

Common Causes of Car Dying While Idling Due to Alternator Issues?

Here are the common causes of cars dying while idling because of alternator problems:

Drive Belt That Is Loose Or Worn

A deteriorated drive belt can fail to rotate the alternator correctly during idle, causing inadequate battery charging.

Prolonged Exposure To Corrosive Substances

During extended idling, multiple electrical accessories can wear out the alternator prematurely, potentially causing car failure.

Salt And Water Intrusion

If salt and water intrude, particularly when the alternator is positioned near the bottom of the engine, it leads to an alternator malfunction. The result is potential car stalling.

Alternator’s Internal Failure

The alternator’s internal failure or issues with the voltage regulator can cause the electrical system to draw power from the battery.

How Do You Know if a Car Alternator is Bad?

A faulty alternator in need of replacement can manifest various symptoms. Here are some prevalent signs indicating a bad alternator.

• A lit dashboard warning light
• Slow or non-working car accessories
• Headlights are too dim or super bright.
• The burning odor is similar to an electrical fire.
• Unusual noises like buzzing, whirring, or growling from beneath the car hood.
• Dead battery and difficulty starting the vehicle.

DIY Method Of How To Diagnose An Alternator Issue

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to diagnose an alternator issue on your own.

• Ensure the wiring connections at the alternator are correct.
• Check if the battery light turns off when starting the engine.
• Use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the battery terminals; at idle with no load, the voltage should be above 13V.
• Activate all car electrical components, such as headlights, cabin lights, windshield wipers, and the stereo system.
• Verify the car’s battery voltage; it should show above 13V.
• Assess the sounds produced by the alternator while in operation.
• Using a carbon pile to simulate a load and check the amperage output with an ammeter.

If DIY repairs make you uneasy, it’s advisable to have a certified technician check your car to prevent additional damage

Steps To Replacing An Alternator

To change or replace the alternator, follow these steps:

• Unplug the battery
• Identify the alternator
• Find the tensioner pulley and release the belt tension by moving it.

• Take off the old alternator by unbolting it from the engine and brackets.
• Check if the new alternator matches the old one by comparing the position and design of the electrical connector plug-in.

Steps To Replacing A Voltage Regulator

Here are steps to replace a voltage regulator

• Find the voltage regulator at the rear of the alternator or in the battery cable.

• Remove the battery connection.
• Take out each cable from the old regulator and insert them into the new regulator.
• Disconnect each cable from the old regulator and connect them to the new regulator.
• Place the new regulator, aligning it with the holes on the alternator.
• Reattach the battery cables and secure them using a wrench.

Steps To Replacing A Drive Belt

Follow these steps to replace your drive belt

• Find the belt routing indicated on a decal in the engine compartment.
• Ease the tension on the belt.
• Gently slide the old belt off the pulleys.
• Thread the new belt through the pulleys just like the old one.
• Use the tensioner to tighten the new belt.
• Begin the engine and allow it to idle for at least 60 seconds to confirm the proper functioning of the belt.

Tips For Maintaining A Healthy Alternator

Keep your alternator healthy with these tips:

• Use a soft brush or cloth to clean dirt and debris from the alternator’s surfaces regularly.
• Maintain good airflow by cleaning the area, preventing it from getting covered in debris, dust, or dirt to keep the alternator cool.
• Make sure to jump-start a car correctly to prevent harming the alternator.
• Select the right belt for the alternator, considering its power ratings for optimal performance.
• Check that the alternator and crankshaft pulley are perfectly aligned for a smooth engine.
• Avoid overloading.
• Verify that the electrical connections on the alternator and battery are both clean and tight.
• Confirm the alternator’s belt is not loose, worn, or damaged.

FAQs

Here are questions people also asked on car dies while idling alternator and the answers

Why does my car battery die when idle?

As long as your car is running, the engine consumes fuel. During idle, both the engine and alternator run at slower speeds, drawing power from the car’s battery.

What shortens car battery life?

Daily driving, including rapid starts and abrupt stops, loosens the car battery. Excessive looseness can lead to heightened vibration, straining the battery, surrounding components, and circuits.

What are the problems caused by idling cars?

When a vehicle is idling, it emits harmful chemicals, gasses, and particle pollution (“soot”). This contributes to ozone, regional haze, and global climate change.

Final Words

The alternator is crucial in a vehicle, converting engine rotation into electrical energy for battery charging and powering the electrical system.

Proactive maintenance and timely repairs are vital to prevent alternator-related car troubles. Factors like corrosive exposure, fluid leakage, and prolonged idling with multiple accessories can lead to issues.

Regular inspections are essential for optimal alternator function and overall electrical system health. Addressing potential problems promptly ensures a reliable and efficient driving experience