7 Dấu hiệu nhận biết cần phải kiểm tra, bảo dưỡng máy phát điện ô tô NGAY

When your car has one of the following signs, you should check and maintain the car generator promptly. Specifically:

Car is difficult to start or stalls while running:

When the car is difficult to start, the cause may be a problem with the alternator. This causes the battery to not charge and the car to start more difficult than usual. In this case, the driver should turn off electrical equipment such as speakers, air conditioners, entertainment screens, etc. and take the car for inspection to limit the situation of the car stalling and not being able to start.

Strange noise coming from the engine compartment:

Strange noises coming from the engine compartment can be caused by many different things. But if the noise is rattling, it could be a problem with the car's alternator. And the direct cause could be a damaged alternator belt or pulley, causing the alternator to drive poorly and stop working.

There is a strange noise coming from the generator.

A squealing, gurgling, or knocking noise coming from your generator could be a sign of problems such as a loose belt, worn bearings, or damage to internal generator components.

The battery indicator light on the dashboard is on.

Normally when the engine is started, the battery indicator light will turn off to notify the system of normal operation. However, when the vehicle is moving and the battery indicator light is still on, it may be due to a weak or damaged battery or a problem with the battery charging system. The indicator light is to notify about this failure.

Dead battery

When the battery dies, it is likely that the car's alternator is damaged, causing the battery to not charge. And the most typical, easily detected symptom of a dead battery is that the car cannot be started.

The lights on the car are not bright or flashing

Because the generator supplies power to the vehicle's accessories, lighting system, etc. When the generator has a problem, the headlight system will be weak and not bright, flickering. Therefore, if the lights on the car are dimmer than usual and flickering, the generator of the driver's "beloved car" may be "sick" and needs to be checked, maintained or repaired.

Burning smell from electrical wires or generator

This odor phenomenon can be caused by the wire heating up because the pulley moves unconnectedly or does not rotate freely. This creates a large friction force on the belt and this part of the wire heats up, creating an unpleasant smell like burning rubber. And at that time, it is possible that the car generator of the driver has been short-circuited or overloaded. This is a dangerous sign that needs to be checked and handled immediately.

Car generator maintenance instructions:

Car alternators, the power source for the vehicle's electrical system, need regular maintenance to ensure stable operation and long life. Below are detailed instructions on how to maintain a car alternator, helping you confidently "take care" of your "beloved car".

A. Basic testing steps (can be done at home):

•  Check generator belt:
• Visual inspection: Check the belt for cracks, tears, wear or looseness. If the belt is too loose, it will slip on the pulley, reducing transmission efficiency and affecting the generator's ability to generate power..
  • Check the tension: Press your finger on the belt, if the belt sinks too much, the tension needs to be adjusted.
  •  Check wiring connections: Make sure connections are secure: Check the wiring connections on the generator for loose, rusted, or corroded connections. If so, clean and tighten the connections.
•  Check oil level and quality (if applicable): Some generators may use oil for lubrication. Check the oil level and quality according to the manufacturer's instructions. If the oil is dirty or low, replace or top up.
•  Generator cleaning:
  • Remove dirt: Use a broom or vacuum cleaner to clean dirt from the generator, especially in the slots and grooves.
  • Keep the machine clear: Make sure there are no obstructions blocking the generator's cooling fan.

B. Intensive maintenance steps (usually done at a garage):

•  Check carbon brushes: Carbon brushes are the part that transmits current to the rotor. Worn carbon brushes will reduce the efficiency of power generation. Carbon brushes need to be checked and replaced periodically.
•  Check the rotor and stator: The rotor and stator are two important parts that generate electricity. Check for signs of damage such as burning, broken wires or looseness.
•  Check the rectifier and regulator: The rectifier and regulator are responsible for converting and stabilizing the generator's output current. It is necessary to check that these parts are operating properly.
• Replace damaged components: If any components are found to be damaged, they should be replaced with genuine or high-quality components to ensure stable operation of the generator.

Proper maintenance of car generators will help prolong the life of the machine, ensure adequate power supply for vehicle equipment and help the vehicle operate stably and safely.