Is this an alternator problem? How much would it cost me for the repairs?

Question

Last night while my friends and I were on our way home we smelled something burning from the car. then I saw a white smoke coming out of the hood. We checked and nothing seems to be burning (it was at night). Then the next day I noticed that my car's lights dimmed. Then I started the engine and checked the battery indicator, its not charging and the battery is low. Is this an alternator problem? Around how much would it cost? Thanks!

Answer 1

if a belt didnt burn up start the car while running disconnect the positive battery terminal and lift off post if engine stays running its chargin ok if it stalls then sysytem is not charging could be voltage regulator or alternator some alterators have the voltage regulator built into it take alternator off car bring to local parts store for a free test good luck

Answer 2

Sounds like a alternater problem, a rebuilt one will cost you about 100, and a new one about 250.

I recomment you replace the belt that drives the alternater too.  All in all, it ll be about 300-500 dollars to fix. (includes labor at garage)

Answer 3

you smelled burning but you didnt stop and check lucky you didnt have a fire.. you busted a belt easy fix.. open your hood and look

Answer 4

That same kind of thing happened with my car too, and it did turn out to be the alternator. I think I found someone to rebuild it for about $60 dollars.  

Answer 5

Could you describe this smell? It does sound like it may be an alternator problem. If possible, take the battery to autozone first and have them check it. Sometimes if the battery is gone it will not hold a charge. (it's free) and also check all your cable connections to the battery, make sure everything is tight and not corroded. If the battery is good and the connections are good then it's your alternator. They can also check your alternator but you would have to get it there first.

Good Luck

Answer 6

well if its ur alternator, more that likely the pulley stop turning, hence the reason ur belt would snap off, alternators usually range from $100 to $230, depending on wat kind of car and the alternator quality, to find out if its the battery or alternator, disconnect the red cable off of the battery, if the car stays running its the battery, if it shuts off its tha alternator

Answer 7

You didn't mention anything about the make, model or year of the car, so I'd say the cost is from 100 dollars to infinity. Or Infiniti if that happens to be the make.