How do you diagnose a bad alternator pulley?

If you ever hear growling or whining noises coming from under the hood, you could have alternator problems, which should be checked out by a professional ASAP. This growling or whining sound happens when the belt that turns the alternator’s pulley becomes misaligned or rubs against the side of the pulley.

Can I drive with a bad alternator pulley?

So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises. The car can still run for months or break after a few days.

How much does it cost to fix an alternator pulley?

There is an average cost for a drive belt idler pulley replacement. Labor costs are between 64 and $81 while parts are between $79 and $83.

Can I replace alternator pulley?

In many cases it is possible to remove and install the overrunning alternator pulley while the alternator is still on the engine. The plastic protective cap cannot be re-used after it has been removed from the pulley. A replacement cap is supplied with the new part.

What happens if alternator pulley breaks?

A broken or seized pulley can quickly lead to a torn belt, or in less serious cases, the belt falling off of the engine. An engine without a belt can quickly run into issues such as overheating and stalling, as it’s the drive belt that allows the engine accessories to function.

What does a dying alternator sound like?

If you hear a small rattling or grinding sound when your engine is running, this could be caused by a loose bearing in your alternator. Conversely, if you hear a constant high whine while you are driving, this is usually a sign that your alternator is failing to distribute the necessary power throughout your vehicle.

Can a pulley on an alternator be replaced?

How long does it take to replace an alternator pulley?

In general, it will take about two hours for you to replace an alternator on your own, though this could vary somewhat depending on your knowledge of car mechanics.