How To: Test An Alternator

Published: 12 August 2024
on channel: O'Reilly Auto Parts
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These step-by-step instructions and video detail alternator testing on a 2012 Honda CRV, and while location specifics may be different, the general instructions on how to test an alternator are similar. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual to find the exact location and testing specifics for your vehicle’s alternator before beginning. Properly testing an alternator can help you better identify systems to repair or maintain, and can help with an easier, quicker repair overall. Prevent stalling, rough idles, and inconvenient breakdowns by learning how to test car alternators and start your repairs off right.

Supplies Needed for This Job:
1. Safety Glasses: https://bit.ly/3cRqX2F
2. Gloves: https://bit.ly/2GvfwAm
3. Multimeter: https://bit.ly/4f6ilGC

0:00 Welcome Back
0:30 Locate the Alternator in the Engine Bay
0:42 Check the Tension of the Serpentine Belt
1:08 Turn on your Voltage meter and set it to measure DC Volts
1:20 Connect the Positive and Negative Leads to your Batteries Terminals
1:35 Turn on your Car's Radio, Headlights, and A/C system, check the Voltmeter Read again

The purpose of an alternator is to start and run your vehicle by charging the automotive battery to start the engine and power electrical accessories such as your radio, power windows, windshield wipers, seat heaters, and more. By converting mechanical energy into electrical energy, the alternator is crucial to a smooth-starting and well-running vehicle. As with all electrical components, your alternator can wear out over time due to heat, age, and general use. A bad alternator will result in electrical systems being powered only until the battery’s reserve charge is depleted; signs of a bad alternator include dim dashboard lights or headlights, and a battery that does not hold charge. Your vehicle can also die with a bad alternator but may be able to be restarted with a jump start. Learning how to test an alternator is a straightforward task that can help you understand more about your vehicle, its system, and its performance capacity. Begin your diagnosis with added confidence with our helpful instructions and video on how to test a car alternator from O’Reilly Auto Parts.

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Alternator Test Multimeter Honda Accord CRV
2012 Honda Accord Alternator Testing
Alternator Replacement Voltage Test
Serpentine Belt Tension 2012 Honda Accord

Locate the alternator, which is often accessible in the engine bay.
Most have a round, metal casing that’s vented, with copper wire that’s visible inside.
The first thing to check is the tension of the serpentine belt routed around the alternator pulley.
Press on the belt between any two pulleys
There should be about half an inch of play if the belt is at the proper tension.
If the slack in the belt is greater than a half inch, you probably need to replace the belt, and possibly the tensioner as well.

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