Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center Blog

Your alternator is a crucial component in your vehicle’s electrical system, responsible for keeping the battery charged and powering the various electrical systems while the engine is running. When the alternator starts to fail, it can lead to problems that may leave you stranded, making it important to get to the shop at the first sign of trouble. At Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center, we provide expert alternator replacement and auto electric repair in the greater Plymouth, MI area. Here’s a look at five warning signs of an alternator problem. Warning Light on the Dashboard If you see the battery warning light illuminate on your dashboard, it's a clear indication that there's a problem with the charging system, which includes the alternator. Ignoring this warning light could lead to a dead battery and a vehicle that won't start. Strange Noises A failing alternator can produce unusual noises that indicate something is wrong. You might hear a whining or grinding noise, which could be caused by a belt or bearing problem. Dimming/Flickering Lights If you notice that your headlights are not as bright as they used to be or if they flicker while you're driving, it could be a sign that the alternator is not generating enough power to keep the electrical system running smoothly. Also, you might observe dimming or flickering interior lights or dashboard lights. Dead Battery/No-Start If your alternator isn’t functioning properly, the battery might not have enough charge to start the vehicle. When a battery dies, it’s not always because of a faulty alternator. But if there isn’t another obvious reason for your dead battery, then it’s worth investigating your alternator as the potential culprit. Electrical Accessory Issues Since the alternator powers various electrical components in your car, you might experience a range of electrical issues when it begins to fail. These can include malfunctioning power windows, erratic behavior from the radio, or issues with the air conditioning system. Alternator Replacement & Auto Electric Repair in Plymouth, MI When you need auto repair in Plymouth, MI and the surrounding area, contact Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center at  (734) 404-7625  . At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your car’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

To stay as safe as possible during your daily commute, it’s crucial that your brakes are working optimally. When you first notice a symptom of brake trouble, it’s important to alert the mechanic. At Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center, we provide top-quality brake repair in the greater Plymouth, MI area. Here are five signs of a brake problem. Squeaking or Squealing Noises A common early sign of brake trouble is an unusual noise when applying the brakes. Squeaking or squealing sounds can be a result of worn-out brake pads. Brake pads come equipped with a wear indicator that produces these sounds when the pads are nearing the end of their lifespan. Ignoring this noise may lead to decreased braking efficiency and potential damage to brake components. Vibrations If you feel vibrations or pulsations when applying the brakes, it could be a sign of warped brake rotors. Warped rotors can result from excessive heat, causing an uneven surface that leads to the noticeable vibrations. For reliable and safe braking, this issue should be promptly addressed. Veering If your car veers off to one side when you brake, you could be dealing with a caliper that has seized up because of corrosion. This creates a major safety hazard for you and others on the road. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A brake pedal that feels soft or spongy could be due to air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak. In the event that your vehicle is leaking brake fluid, you’ve got a serious safety risk and shouldn’t drive it. Instead, you should have a tow truck bring your vehicle to the shop. Dashboard Warning Light An illuminated ABS warning light suggests an issue in the braking system and should be brought to the mechanic’s attention. This light may get triggered by issues such as low brake fluid and faulty wheel speed sensors. Brake Repair in Plymouth, MI When you need brake repair in Plymouth, MI and the surrounding area, contact Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center at  (734) 404-7625  . Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!