Which is Going Bad: ALTERNATOR or CAR BATTERY (How Visually Inspect WITHOUT Multimeter TEST Symptoms
If you don't have a multimeter or tester, you can diagnose your car's battery or alternator based on visual inspection and symptoms:
Signs the Battery Might Be Bad and how to visually inspect:
Physical Inspection:
Check for corrosion on terminals (white/blue residue).
Look for a swollen or cracked case.
Inspect for leaking fluid or bad smells (rotten egg odor).
Symptoms:
Difficulty starting the car (slow crank or clicking noise).
Dim lights or electrical accessories not functioning well before starting.
Signs the Alternator Might Be Bad:
Belt Condition:
Inspect the serpentine belt connected to the alternator for wear, cracks, or looseness.
Symptoms:
Dim lights (headlights or interior) while driving, especially if they brighten when revving the engine.
Battery/ALT warning light on the dashboard.
Accessories like the radio or air conditioning malfunction during operation.
Burning smell from under the hood (could indicate a failing alternator or slipping belt).
Quick Test:
Start the car and disconnect the negative battery cable:
If the car stalls, the alternator isn’t keeping the engine running, indicating it may be failing. (This test is risky and should only be done as a last resort.)
If symptoms persist, it’s best to have the system tested by a professional. #carbatterycharger
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