The alternator is the pivotal point of the charging operation of your car. It generates all the power needed to keep the battery fully charged and to operate everything electrical in the vehicle. The alternator, found mounted on the engine, produces alternating current. If your alternator is not charging properly, it will have a detrimental effect on many other facets of your vehicle, so it is vital to be able to diagnose any problems early.
Start your car. Leave the car running and check the power of the headlights. If the headlights are dim, then it is an indication that the alternator is not properly charging. Turn off your lights, radio, air conditioner and any other running electrical system in this event until you figure out the problem.
Switch off the engine and check the connections between the alternator and battery. This connection is a main electrical wire on the rear of the alternator that supplies voltage to the battery. The primary job of the alternator is to charge the battery, so you must check this connection is sound before you will get a proper idea whether the alternator is functioning properly.
Connect a multimeter to your alternator by placing the red wire against the positive panel of the alternator and the black wire against the negative terminal. Start your car in order to ascertain how much current is being produced by your alternator. Typically 13.6 to 15.3 volts should be showing; if not, then this could be an indication it is not charging properly.
