Jim Norton Ford

Saved
Call 918-251-3673 Directions
Blog / Broken Arrow, OK

3 Signs Your Ford Needs an Alternator Repair

· 3 min read

Your Ford's alternator has the vital role of producing all your car's electrical power. Your car has numerous systems and devices that depend on a constant and consistent power supply. The alternator can suffer wear over time, or it may malfunction. If you experience any problems with your alternator, your Ford dealer can perform an alternator repair. These are some of the signs that your alternator needs to be checked.

3 Signs That You Need an Alternator Repair at Your Ford Dealer

A Worn Battery

Your alternator may be in great shape, but a worn-out battery can damage it. Your alternator and battery must work together. The alternator generates power for your car, and your battery stores some of this energy. The battery depends on the alternator to keep it constantly charged. If your battery starts to wear out, it develops problems with recharging, and this can affect the alternator.

Your alternator will begin recharging your battery when your engine starts. The alternator will charge your battery at full power for five minutes and then recharges at a lower rate. A damaged battery won't acknowledge receiving the first charge it receives. The alternator will continue to try and charge your battery using its full power, which will damage your alternator.

Battery Warning Light

You mustn't ignore a warning light on your dash. Each of the lights is connected to sensors attached throughout your car. These sensors monitor your engine and its components for any signs of problems. The sensors are sensitive and can detect even minute changes in the behavior of one of the components. If a problem is noted, the relevant warning gift will come on.

In the case of the battery light, this light comes on in response to problems in the electrical system. The alternator can trigger this light when it starts to wear out. A healthy alternator produces approximately 14.5 volts, but this power will drop as it ages. When the power generated by the alternator drops below 13 volts, the alternator is failing. The sensors will register the drop in power, and the light will come on.

Dim Lights

Dim headlights can be a sign of a weakening alternator. Your headlights depend on a constant supply of power to operate correctly. As an alternator gets older, it gradually produces less power. The reduced power generation will start to show when the alternator can supply all of your car's electrical demands. Once this occurs, your car's computer needs to allocate the limited available power.

Power will be shifted between components as needed. Many components will be allocated just enough power to allow them to work. Dim headlights are one of the most obvious signs that your alternator is in distress. Our technicians can test your alternator for signs of wear, and replace it if it's damaged.

If your alternator shows signs of wear, call our service department right away at Matthews Ford. Our Ford-trained technicians can repair or replace your alternator depending on the situation.

Posted in:

Related Posts

Aug 03, 2023 in Broken Arrow, OK

Your Guide to the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2023 Ford Bronco Sport has quickly garnered praise from drivers and off-road enthusiasts alike since its release and for many good reasons. Excellent engine performance, off-road capabilities, and easy handling all make this edition a pleasure to drive, while its sophisticated technology, from its entertainment features to its safety monitoring systems, is ahead of its time. Your Guide to the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Engines and Off-Roading This edition of the Bronco Sport serves up two responsive engine options for you to choose from. Regardless of whether you go with the 181-horsepower 1.5-liter or the 250-horsepower 2.0-liter, both offer exceptional fuel efficiency on highways, with an estimated 28 mpg achievable with the first engine and 26 mpg in the other. Known for its off-road capabilities, this vehicle is equipped with a standard four-wheel-drive system that doesn't back down from a challenge, and it's enhanced by many other off-roading enhancements, including a trail-tackling suspension system called H.O.S.S. and a terrain management system, G.O.A.T. Modes, which lets you optimize traction in an instant. Comfort and Convenience The Bronco Sport's interior was designed with both comfort and durability in mind, with available features like dual-zone climate control for dividing the cabin's air temperature into separate zones for passengers, heated leather seats, and, for easy washouts after muddy adventures, moisture-resistant flooring and in-floor drain plugs. On the exterior, the available safari-style roof not only provides a bit of extra headroom for passengers inside , butalso gives you a sturdy place to secure cargo with its 150-pound load capacity. All-terrain tires, metal bash plates, and up to 8.8 inches of ground clearance are also available, giving you all the ruggedness you need to explore off-the-grid places where many other SUVs simply can't. Entertainment and Safety The 2023 edition also raises the bar with its cutting-edge safety and tech features, and the SYNC system serves as its command center for everything from entertainment to convenient navigation assistance. With customizable user profiles, access to SiriusXM satellite radio channels, and seamless Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling, this multifunction system offers something for everyone on long drives and pairs perfectly with both the vehicle's 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and 10-speaker audio system. BLIS, or the Blind Spot Information System, uses radar sensors to monitor the blind spot areas around your vehicle, alerting you whenever a vehicle enters into these zones. This allows you to change lanes with confidence, while Pre-Collision Assist warns of vehicles in your path and the Auto High-Beam Headlamps adjust themselves automatically as needed. Standing alone as one of the most unique SUVs ever built, the 2023 Bronco Sport doubles as both a stylish everyday commuter and an off-road adventurer that rises to the challenge. Come see what all the fuss is about and why so many drivers are praising this adaptable SUV by dropping by and visiting us today at Matthews Ford.

Dec 16, 2022 in Broken Arrow, OK

Take the Car and Check Out These 3 Best Views Near Broken Arrow, OK

Located in the southeastern outskirts of Tulsa, the city of Broken Arrow, OK was originally an agricultural community and is now a well-known base for travelers exploring the diverse attractions of Oklahoma. If you are planning a vacation in the region and are looking for the best views of the area, here are three destinations you can reach in less than 30 minutes by car from the city center. more Take the Car and Check Out These 3 Best Views Near Broken Arrow, OK 1. Chandler Park Covering nearly 200 acres of woodlands and boasting some of the most scenic views of the cities of Tulsa and Sand Springs, Chandler Park is a local attraction you should not miss while exploring the region with your friends and family. Besides the scenic vistas, this place offers disc golf courses, several nature trails, and a splash park. Open every day of the year between 7:00 am and 8:00 pm, Chandler Park sits on the southern banks of the Arkansas River and is located about 18 miles northwest of the Broken Arrow city center, making it possible to reach it in just 20 minutes by car via route US-64. Established in the late 1950s, this place is a popular getaway for locals, particularly during the spring and summer months. 2. Woodward Park and Gardens If you are searching for a scenic oasis of calm and nature within driving distance from Broken Arrow and other nearby towns, Woodward Park and Gardens is the place to be. Sitting in the Swan Lake area and about 12 miles northwest of downtown Broken Arrow, this place can be reached in about 15 minutes by car via routes OK-51 and US-64. The Woodward Park and Gardens complex was established during the 1920s and 1930s and encompasses nearly 45 acres of lush greenery, featuring photogenic landscapes and beautiful views of Swan Lake and the beautiful concrete fountain that stands in the middle of it. Other attractions you can find here include the Tulsa Rose Garden, a historic barn, and a visitor center. 3. Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area Encompassing an area of about 300 acres around a 100-foot hill on the west banks of the Arkansas River, Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area is a largely undeveloped nature reserve that boasts several miles of hiking paths and beautiful views of the Tulsa downtown area. This place is located just 10 miles west of the Broken Arrow city center and can be reached in 20 minutes by car. Are you searching for a spacious, stylish, modern, and powerful vehicle to explore Oklahoma and discover its most scenic spots with your family? The new 2022 Ford Edge ST might just be the perfect model for you. Stop by Matthews Ford today, explore the features of this SUV, and take a look at the rest of our extensive inventory.

Nov 25, 2022 in Broken Arrow, OK

Hit the Road! 3 Amazing Day Trips Near Broken Arrow, OK

Grabbing some snacks, hitting the road early, and taking your family on a day trip is one of the best activities you can enjoy during the weekend. Whether you like bustling cities or quaint nature reserves, exploring your surroundings is a great way to relax and take a break from the routine. If you are searching for places to visit near Broken Arrow, OK, here are three easy day trips you can go on without driving too far. more Hit the Road! 3 Amazing Day Trips Near Broken Arrow, OK 1. Tulsa Known for its art deco architecture and sitting on the banks of the Arkansas River, Tulsa is the most popular day trip destination among Broken Arrow locals wanting to spend a day in a city full of local attractions, cultural centers, museums, and great restaurants. With a population of about one million inhabitants in its metropolitan area, Tulsa is the second largest city in the state of Oklahoma. Getting from Broken Arrow to downtown Tulsa takes about 20 minutes by car via routes OK-51 and US-64. Once you make your way to the city, some of the local landmarks you should explore include the East Village District, the Philbrook Museum of Art, Woodward Park, the Oklahoma Aquarium, and the Tulsa Historical Society and Museum. 2. Sequoyah State Park A magnet for water lovers and wildlife watchers from all over the region, Sequoyah State Park is a wonderful day trip destination that can be reached in a little under 40 minutes by car from the Broken Arrow city center. Covering an area of a little over 2,200 acres, this nature reserve welcomes about 275,000 visitors each year. Established in 1948 and Managed by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, Sequoyah State Park offers great facilities for visitors, including over 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, a golf course, a nature center hosting rehabilitated mammals and birds, a cozy lodge, and horseback riding stables. 3. Greenleaf State Park Located about 55 miles southeast of Broken Arrow, Greenleaf State Park is another beautiful nature reserve located on the shores of the Greenleaf Lake. Encompassing an area of about 565 acres and managed by the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department, this state park was established in the late 1930s and is one of the most scenic spots in the region. Popular activities include hiking, camping, wildlife watching, and boating. With its spacious and comfortable cabin, solid powertrain, and all-wheel drive, the 2022 Ford Edge is a wonderful vehicle to take your family on wonderful adventures to nearby cities and remote offroad destinations. Visit us today at Matthews Ford, check out this fantastic model in person, book a test drive, and learn about the different financing plans available for you to take it home.

Contact Us

Fill out this form below and we'll contact you shortly
*Required Fields

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.