Does Advance Auto Parts test alternators? (all you must know)
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Alternators are an important part of your vehicle because they power your vehicle and all electrical components by charging the battery.
So, if you need to test that your alternator is working, can you drive to Advance Auto? Here’s everything you need to know!
Will Advance Auto Parts test alternators in 2022?
Advance Auto Parts stores will test alternators in 2022. If you have problems starting or charging your vehicle, you can go to the nearest Advance Auto Parts store where staff will test it on and off the vehicle. This is a free service to all customers; therefore, you can easily test your alternator to determine if it needs to be replaced.
For more information on whether Advance Auto Parts tests alternators and the signs to look out for when an alternator needs testing, read on!
Will Advance Auto Parts charge the test alternator?
Advance Auto Parts offers some free services to its customers, including alternator testing.
So if you suspect your alternator is malfunctioning, you can drive to the nearest Advance Auto Parts store to test it.
While you don’t need to pay for an alternator test, if the Advance Auto Parts staff decides you need a new one, you should budget for a replacement.
The average cost of a new alternator from Advance Auto Parts is about $140 to $250. This price varies by make, model and brand.
Also, if you need to buy other accessories from Advance Auto Parts to make your alternator work, you may spend more.
Are Advance Auto Parts alternator tests accurate?
If you visit Advance Auto Parts for an alternator test, you can be sure the results are accurate.
As an auto parts retailer, Advance Auto Parts has the right equipment for testing.
Also, the company offers this service for free because its team members have the appropriate skills to assist car owners.
To avoid any problems on the road, an alternator test by a professional such as Advance Auto Parts is recommended.
Will Advance Auto Parts replace alternators?
If your alternator needs to be replaced after testing, Advance Auto Parts will not replace it for you. Instead, the store has some tips on how to replace an alternator on its website.
According to this auto parts retailer, changing the alternator is not complicated and takes about two hours if you have some automotive knowledge.
You can consult the owner’s manual for the correct location of the alternator and all vehicle parts. This is essential to avoid further damage to the vehicle.
However, if you are a novice with no automotive knowledge, it is best to have it replaced by a professional.
Advance Auto Parts has a Find Mechanic tool that enables car owners to find a tech store in their city or town.
So, you can use this tool to find a mechanic and professionally replace and install the alternator.
What are the signs that your alternator needs testing?
As a car owner, you can keep an eye out for these signs to determine if your alternator needs testing.
dim light
Ideally, the alternator keeps the power supply constant.
When the headlights, stereo, navigation and heater drain the battery, the alternator charges the battery to keep the vehicle running.
So when you notice your headlights are dim or flickering, you need to test the alternator to see if it is working properly.
Check if the engine light is on
One of the most obvious signs is the check engine light. When you see the red battery icon on the dash or indicator light, you need to test the alternator.
While this varies by model, you can address the issue early to prevent further problems.
strange noise
You may also notice that your vehicle makes a screeching noise as the serpentine belt stretches over time; therefore, it is not spinning the alternator pulley properly.
Also, if the internal bearings are worn, you will hear a grinding noise or growl.
electrical problems
Components like windows and power seats may run more slowly when your alternator has a problem.
Most components, such as the radio, will stop working because the vehicle does not have enough power. When this happens, you will need to bring your vehicle for testing.
Turn off the engine
You should also test the alternator if the engine keeps stalling while you are driving. It takes a lot of electricity to inject fuel into an engine; therefore, you need a well-running alternator.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on whether Advance Auto Parts replaces headlights, whether Advance Auto Parts installs wiper blades, and whether Advance Auto Parts installs batteries.
in conclusion
Advance Auto Parts shop tests alternators for car owners. If your vehicle is having problems starting or charging, you can go to the nearest Advance Auto Parts store where staff will test it on and off the vehicle.
Plus, this is a free service for all customers; therefore, you can easily test your alternator to determine if it needs to be replaced.
