How Long Does an Alternator Last? (Average Lifespan)
When drivers think about the electrical performance of their car, they almost always think of the car battery. However, the battery produces the least amount of electricity for the vehicle.
The generator is actually responsible for powering the main electrical accessories and functions of the vehicle, such as the radio, air conditioning, and lights.
The battery only produces the charge required for ignition when starting the vehicle. The battery then acts as an electrical backup if there’s a problem with the generator’s current draw.
But overall, the generator is the main power source for your car. It’s the part that keeps your car running after the battery starts the engine.
How long does a generator last?
Generators will certainly last longer than a car battery. When asked about the average lifespan of a generator, automakers often give different answers.
On average, you can expect a car generator to last between 5 and 8 years. But it really depends on how often you drive, the age of your car, and how many miles you put on it. Most car owners expect their generators to last between 60,000 and 150,000 miles.
Newer cars, especially those known for their reliability like Honda, Toyota, and Lexus, are at the top of this range, while older or more fuel-efficient cars are at the bottom. Some car manufacturers even claim that the alternator lasts the life of the vehicle. This is possible, but not the rule.
Watch for signs of alternator failure
It can be difficult to tell when your alternator is failing. The symptoms of a bad alternator are nearly identical to those of a bad battery, since both are important sources of energy for your vehicle. It is not possible for one power source to work without the other. Both depend on each other for the vehicle to operate properly. However, the battery is more likely to deteriorate than the generator. When the generator fails, the following symptoms appear:
1. Low beam
2. 1. The car won’t start
2. The generator warning light is on
3. Electrical components stop working
4. There’s a strange noise coming from the engine bay
Conclusion
Pay close attention to the mileage of your car and the age of your battery and generator. This information alone will usually help you determine if your generator or battery is failing. However, be aware that you may have your generator replaced by a repair shop you don’t know. They may receive a refurbished generator as a replacement and claim it’s new.
Because of this, the lifespan of a used generator is more likely to be 2-4 years instead of 5-8 years. Do your research when finding a repair shop that can replace your generator.