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Can stressing a car’s electrical system damage the alternator?
My current car has an old, out-of-date radio system and I’d love to update it with something more modern, but I’m worried about causing stress to the alternator. Can overloading a car’s electrical system damage the alternator?
Allison Stone · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Technically anything that, something that many mechanics are encountering these days are failed alternators due to added stress to the car’s electrical system. Anything that draws power from your car’s battery, including the stereo or infotainment system, power windows, seat warmers, power seats, etc., draws power from your alternator.
Keeping an eye on your car’s electronics is actually a great way to gauge the health of your alternator. Signs your alternator might be failing include:
- Dead battery
- Dim, flickering, or overly bright headlights and interior lights
- Malfunctioning accessories including power windows, power seats, seat warmers, stereo, or other nonessential accessories
- Unpleasant electrical burn smell
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MORE: Jumpstarting your dead car battery back to life ](
https://getjerry.com/car-insurance/what-to-do-if-your-car-battery-dies
)View full answer
- Gregory R.
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