Battery warning light stays on or comes on while driving
Headlights dim, flicker, or get brighter and dimmer with engine speed
Battery keeps dying or needs frequent jump-starts
Engine cranks slowly or has trouble starting
Electrical accessories act weak or stop working
Dashboard lights flicker or go dim
Strange whining, grinding, or squealing noises from the alternator area
Burning smell from overheating electrical components
Car stalls or runs poorly when the battery is weak
Voltage test shows low or unstable charging output
Battery terminals and cables are clean, but charging problems continue
Alternator belt is loose, worn, or slipping
Warning messages about charging system appear on the dashboard