Almost everyone has dealt with the issue where the Subaru Crosstrek alternator or battery simply fails. So, what are Subaru Crosstrek alternator problems?
The alternator keeps your car running even when the battery starts it. This part does more than just replenish the battery so that it will be ready to start your car again. While your Subaru is running, the alternator also supplies electricity to its electrical systems.
As you might guess, your car can experience a wide range of issues if the alternator fails. It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly which component of your Subaru Crosstrek is causing you trouble.
Here are a few guidelines to help you determine whether you have alternator or battery issues with your Subaru Crosstrek. In this article, we offer important details regarding the condition of your car. Continue reading until the end!
Signs Of Subaru Crosstrek Alternator Problems
The Subaru Crosstrek’s power station, which transforms mechanical energy from the engine into electricity, is the alternator. While the engine is operating, it not only powers all of the electrical parts of the car but also recharges the battery. When your Crosstrek’s alternator fails, it can be extremely risky to drive on the highway because breakdowns are so likely to occur. There are some signs are listed below:
Odd Noises
It’s wise to pay attention to the sounds your vehicle makes because a failed alternator might make a variety of sounds. An alternator that makes a whining, growling, or grinding sounds could have bad bearings or bushings.
Even while strange noises originating from your engine compartment are frequently a sign of an alternator issue, they should still be taken seriously.
It is best to stop in a secure location and call for assistance if you hear strange noises. Your best bet for keeping your car repair costs in check is to do it before more damage can happen.
Uneven Or Flashing Lights
Dim or flickering dashboard and headlight lights may be a clear indication that the alternator is having problems. Your headlights should glow brightly and continuously if your alternator is functioning properly.
The headlights may flicker or lose brightness if the alternator is beginning to fail. Your dash lights operate similarly. There’s a good reason why this is likely the most well-known sign of a damaged alternator. Let’s make time at the repair facility for professional alternator maintenance.
Electrical Problems
It’s simple to overlook how many different systems your car uses to acquire its power from the alternator.
The alternator provides power for a variety of components, including the music system, air conditioning system, power windows, power locks, and even power seats.
Seize the opportunity if one of these systems starts to malfunction. Despite the fact that it can seem insignificant, it could indicate alternator issues.
Your Car Won’t Start
Although having your Subaru examined at the shop is the best way to learn, you may conduct a fast test at home by jump-starting your car. In most cases, we advise leaving the two vehicles linked for a short while after the jump, but in this instance, you should disconnect the wires as soon as your vehicle has started.
Next, let the car idle for a while. Your car’s alternator is probably to blame if it fails while it is moving. The battery is probably the issue if your Subaru continues to run but won’t start when you attempt again.
Vehicle Stalls
A bad alternator may not be the first thing you think of when your car stalls, but it very well could be. The engine cannot function effectively without electricity, which powers everything from the spark plugs to the main computer.
While you’re driving, the engine could abruptly shut off if they’re not receiving enough electricity. A car with a dead engine is far more difficult to control, thus such stalling is always cause for alarm.
Charge Warning Light
Your Subaru’s dashboard contains many warning lights that might alert you to problems. The charge warning light is one of these. This light has two connections marked with the letters “-” and “+,” just like a car battery would.
If this light comes on while you’re driving, the charging mechanism might be malfunctioning and not charging properly. A damaged alternator is one of the many potential causes for this light to turn on.
However, it’s recommended to contact your neighborhood Subaru dealership as soon as you discover this light is on. By doing so, you may be certain that the root of the issue is being addressed.
What Should You Do When Subaru Crosstrek Alternator Problems Appear?
When your alternator fails, we will advise you on what you should do. To improve the situation, follow the procedures listed below.
Check Your Battery
Check your battery first before anything else. It’s pretty typical to have a dead battery that simply won’t start in chilly temperatures. If the battery is still providing a charge after you’ve turned the Subaru Crosstrek off, check the battery gauge on the dashboard. A dull, flashing light indicates that the battery is being consumed by something.
After that, you can check the connections for things you frequently use, such as the brake lights, windshield wipers, and automatic window openers. Turn off everything and try the battery one more time. Once the corrosion has been removed, test if the battery can be recharged.
Then use a voltmeter to verify the battery voltage. When your car is off, it ought to show something close to 12.6 volts. Then restart the engine and examine the battery. The battery is in typical condition if the voltmeter registers 14 to 15 volts.
However, there can be an issue with the voltage regulator, the wiring, or the alternator if the battery registers over 15 volts or less than 13 volts. When the battery just won’t maintain a charge even after all accessories have been disconnected, it’s time to look at the various systems that depend on the battery to power your Subaru Crosstrek.
Verify The Alternator
Check the alternator’s capability to ignite the battery. When everything about the battery is in order and there are no issues, the alternator is more likely to malfunction.
Running your Subaru Crosstrek while removing the positive connection from the battery is an easy way to evaluate the alternator’s functionality.
You most likely have an alternator issue if the Subaru Crosstrek breaks down. Examining your interior lights is an additional easy exam. Your battery is recharged by an alternator when the Subaru Crosstrek is running. When the interior and dashboard lights turn on brightly but then gradually begin to dim, there may be an alternator issue.
It proves that when the Subaru Crosstrek is running, the alternator is unable to maintain a charge. Another clue is when you race your Subaru Crosstrek and the lights are bright, but when you slow down, the lights start to dim.
Additionally, we advise getting a jump start and having the battery and alternator inspected at the garage if your battery dies. This usually only takes a few minutes and is completely free at most garages.
How Much is an Alternator for a Car?
An alternator replacement might be fairly pricey. The final price will vary depending on the car you drive and whether you select a brand-new or remanufactured alternator.
For older automobiles, a rebuilt alternator might cost as little as $80 if the labor is done by you. An alternator for a more recent vehicle can cost between $150 and $200. Budget between $ 300 and $ 500 if you need a professional to install your new alternator, depending on your Subaru Crosstrek.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you drive Crosstrek with a bad alternator?
With a bad alternator, you can still operate your Crosstrek, but only for a limited distance. Since the battery is now the only source of power for all the on-board electrical controls and accessories, the battery charge will decrease as you drive. The engine will cut off if the battery charge drops too low, leaving you stranded.
Q: What are signs that the alternator is going out?
Dim, flickering lights may be an early indicator that your alternator is failing. Your dashboard lights, reading lights, headlights, or other lighting may all exhibit this condition. The electrical power for your car’s lights is supposed to come from the alternator.
Q: How long is an alternator under warranty?
A warranty of at least one year is typically offered with reconditioned alternators, and some even offer warranties of up to three years. There may be a lifetime warranty on some new alternators. Find out the warranty’s duration and scope by speaking with your mechanic.
Final Thoughts
If you realize some Subaru Crosstrek alternator problems, you should always start with checking the voltage at the battery when the engine is running. Test the alternator and its electrical connections next if the voltage test is unsuccessful. The best course of action is to schedule a visit with a qualified mechanic who can quickly identify the alternator problem for you. Good Luck!