Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 2: Using a strain gauge
• Tips
• Warnings

Are you wondering if your alternator is still working properly? It can be difficult to determine if your alternator is still good if you don't know what to look at. You can test your alternator well with a voltage meter. If you have some experience with cars, there are some other methods you can try. Read on to learn how to check if your alternator is working properly.

To step

Method 1 of 2: Using a strain gauge

1. Buy a voltage meter. You can buy a voltage meter for less than 20 euros, at a store with auto parts or hardware store. You really don't need an expensive one, a cheap version is good enough to measure a dynamo.
   • You can also use a multimeter. A multimeter measures the voltage, but also the current and resistance. To check your alternator you need to measure the voltage.
2. Check the alternator gauge on your dashboard. If you have a gauge on your dashboard that indicates volts or amperes, it is the dynamometer. Turn on the blower with air conditioning or heating, your headlights and any other accessories that require power from your dynamo. See if that decreases the pointer. If the meter indicates more when the engine is running than when the engine is hot, you can assume that the alternator is charging the battery properly.
3. Listen to the alternator while the engine is running. If there is a problem with the bearings, you may hear a squeaking noise, which becomes louder when many electrical accessories require power at the same time.
4. Turn on the radio and accelerate. If the radio starts to sound strange when you accelerate, there is probably something wrong with your alternator.
5. Find a place where you can have your dynamo tested for free. Many businesses are happy to sell you a new alternator, so they will also be happy to test your old alternator for free. Remove your alternator from the car and take it to a store or garage for testing.

Tips

• Even if the conclusion is that the alternator is not working, the problem may lie elsewhere. Maybe the fuse has blown, maybe it's a relay or a broken voltage regulator.
• When it's really cold outside, it's a good idea to turn on your headlights for a minute or two before starting the car. A warm battery will start a cold car more easily.

Warnings

• Watch out for your hands, loose clothing, and jewelry while running the engine under the hood.
• Some people recommend testing the alternator by starting the car, disconnecting the negative battery terminal, and then waiting to see whether or not the car turns off. Do not try this method; burn out your voltage regulator, alternator and / or electrical components.