A generator failure can not only cause battery damage due to excessive discharge and failed engine startup, but also result in dangerous consequences such as sudden flameout during driving.
1. Increase in RPM in idle status
Symptom: If the output voltage of the generator is low or there is no power output, the ECU will increase the idle RPM of the engine to increase the power output of the generator. The normal idle speed of a passenger vehicle should be around 700 RPM. If the speed remains close to 1000 RPM constantly, there may be a problem with the generator.
Maintenance suggestions:
Check the output voltage of the generator regularly and conduct testing if necessary. Pay attention to abnormal increase in idle RPM, especially when the engine temperature is normal.
Pay attention to abnormal increase in idle RPM, especially when the engine temperature is normal.
2. Dim or flickering light inside or outside the car
Symptom: In the event of insufficient vehicle power supply or unstable voltage, halogen bulbs may dim or flicker, and LED lights may exhibit uneven brightness. If the lights are dim during driving at night, it is possible that the generator has abnormal output.
Maintenance suggestions:
Check the lights regularly while driving, especially in idle status. If any light flickers or dims, check the status of the generator and battery immediately.
3. Automatic shutdown of some current-consuming devices
Symptom: When the generator is unable to provide stable power, the control system of the vehicle will cut off power of non-essential systems such as multimedia, air conditioning, heating, and lighting systems to maintain adequate battery level. When the battery power drops to a point where it can no longer maintain normal engine operation, the engine will shut down.
Maintenance suggestions:
If multimedia or other devices shut down automatically while driving, the generator should be inspected in a timely manner.
4. The battery alarm indicator lights up
Symptom: When the vehicle battery level decreases to a certain level, the battery alarm indicator on the dashboard will light up, alerting the driver to the problem with the generator output.
Maintenance suggestions:
After noticing that the battery alarm indicator is on, check the status of the generator, including voltage output and connection, in a timely manner.
During vehicle maintenance, the output voltage of the generator and the battery level should be measured regularly to discover generator and battery faults in time.
