I had that "whirring" sound that would increase in pitch with RPM. I was unsure if it was the Alternator, Water Pump, or some other bearing. I unplugged the Alternator and the noise stopped, plugged it back in and the noise was back. Mystery solved! Thank you!!
Wow I have a 2013 Toyota camry and start making the same noise,I bought a new water pump thinking that it was the problem, I haven't installed yet,after watching this video I went to my car and unplug the alternator and the noise stop! Glad I can still return the water pump,thank you so much for the video.
Thanks, I thought my alternator was going out on my wife’s highlander. This confirmed it. Anyone attempting this, be very careful of the engine cooling fans. My alternator is only inches away.
@@Godisundefeated Perfect way to describe! My car started making that noise two weeks ago, I drove over 100 miles and then it died, took it to the shop after a jump, and thats the first thing he say. lol
@@vanessagordon1343 I thought I was over-reacting when I heard this sound and took it straight in to be looked at. Sure enough, it was the alternator. The guy said they don't really give any warning - 'you could keep driving a week or a month, maybe more, but sooner or later it'd get ya.'
yup I had a transmission leak, at the same time, I was all worried my transmission was toast, then I saw this said "nah this is bs" sure enough once the bearing was unloaded, no sound. great video thanks for saving me aton of time !
My alternator whines when the car warms up. It doesnt when its cold. And sometimes even if the engine is hot it randomly stops whining and then starts doing it again... Im so sick of it, reapired it twice, had to change the diode pack (this could be the thing causing the problem rn, because its not an oem part) and had to pull it apart because it had a wiring problem inside. Im just wondering now is it safe to keep driving it? I dont care if battery dies or whatever i just dont want it to catch on fire
If you're hearing a bad alternator sound in your vehicle, it could indicate a problem with the alternator or its components. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery and providing electrical power to the various systems in your car while the engine is running. Here are a few possible causes for a bad alternator sound: 1. Worn-out Bearings: The alternator has internal bearings that allow it to rotate smoothly. Over time, these bearings can wear out, leading to a grinding or whining noise. If you hear a growling or grinding sound coming from the alternator area, it's likely due to worn-out bearings. 2. Loose or Damaged Belts: The alternator is driven by a belt connected to the engine's crankshaft. If the belt becomes loose, worn, or damaged, it may cause a squealing or chirping noise. This sound can occur when the belt slips or when it rubs against other components. 3. Faulty Voltage Regulator: The voltage regulator is a component within the alternator that controls the electrical output. If the voltage regulator malfunctions, it can cause the alternator to produce irregular or excessive voltage, leading to electrical issues and potentially generating unusual sounds. 4. Failing Diodes: Alternators contain diodes that convert the alternating current (AC) produced by the alternator into direct current (DC) used by the vehicle's electrical system. When these diodes fail, they can cause a buzzing or whining noise. If you suspect a problem with your alternator, it's best to have it inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic. They will be able to diagnose the issue accurately and perform the necessary repairs or replacements to resolve the problem. Ignoring alternator issues can lead to a drained battery, electrical system failures, or even a breakdown while driving.
Bad alternator could be from the clutch, bearing, diodes, boards, etc. It is too many varieties. My original Nissan Altima 02 has bad bearing on the alternator. The replacement from Autozone with lifetime warranty have a bad clutch after 2 years/30k miles.
Same was the noise in my Daihatsu Cuore. I drove to the electrician and he replaced bearings but the sound is still there. Now he says that it is the noise of rectifier. By the way which component creates this sound?
My car sounds exactly like this. It randomly starting making this noise except it's much louder than this. I went to a mechanic who told me it was the alternator I just wanted to make sure I wasn't being ripped off
Ok, mine does the same thing. Unplugged, there's no noise. But I've changed the alternator twice and the noise is still there. I'd say it's the voltage regulator but how do you fix it?
What is the other sound That sounds kind of like a belt running? Not the whine of the alternater but the other sound that’s almost sounds like a less deep sounding Diesel engine
Omg my 2012 Corolla car started making this sound and I was like huhh. Then the battery light went on and I couldn’t start my car unless I jumped it. Ugh so annoying
shit, I got this noise for 1month now, and it appear when I changed the timing belt, I thought the belt was scrapping somewhere, I was making fun of it since it sounded like a compressor (on az 75hp car), but holy shit
Mine makes a similar noise that gets quiet after the engine has been on for more then a few minutes on days were the weather is not cold at all and when It Is cold out It takes longer to go away, could that be the same issue?
Jose Pina mine is similar, loud when I start it but goes down after it runs for a bit. I don’t know if I should wait to have it replaced or wait. Did you replace yours? Did it brake on you yet?
Jason B mine has been like this for about 7 months now and It still drives. I'm replacing the Serpentine belt when I get the chance and some pulley's If they're loose. And replace the power steering fluid with oem.
I heard a "wooooo wooooo" sound when I step on gas or right after I start my car. After I unplug it, the sound goes away. my car just over 100,000 miles. so i guess it's about time to replace an alternator.
@@trenyispretty9154 I have Scion tC and it has the same Toyota Camry engine. if you unplug the alternator cable and still make the same noise? then I am not sure. how many miles you had on alternator? if you had over 100,000 or had it for 10 years+, then it might be time to replace it.
@@jason0529 I bought it off a little rinky dinky car lot I’m not sure if they changed it last year or not it looks fairly new still has the sticker on it but that wouldn’t mean much huh?
I had that "whirring" sound that would increase in pitch with RPM. I was unsure if it was the Alternator, Water Pump, or some other bearing. I unplugged the Alternator and the noise stopped, plugged it back in and the noise was back. Mystery solved! Thank you!!
Have u replaced it or buy a new one?
@@stromberg3361 4 years ago
Nice 👍 I love when stuff is this simple. Hardly ever but it sure feels good when it is 😅
Wow I have a 2013 Toyota camry and start making the same noise,I bought a new water pump thinking that it was the problem, I haven't installed yet,after watching this video I went to my car and unplug the alternator and the noise stop! Glad I can still return the water pump,thank you so much for the video.
Maybe if you weren’t in a shop, and didn’t yell “this is the sound a bad alternator makes.” We’d be able to hear the sound it’s making.
I can hear it. It's the sound my car is making. So that's what I listened for. It sounds like a choral top
😂😂😂
Exactly. It’s loud, and I can’t decipher what the alternator sound sounds like.
😭😭
Lol
Thanks, I thought my alternator was going out on my wife’s highlander. This confirmed it.
Anyone attempting this, be very careful of the engine cooling fans. My alternator is only inches away.
Simple and to the point. Thank you.
Excellent video, excellent test. It's rudimentary, but probably quite overlooked. Thanks for adding it to my repertoire!
My mom vacuums the house. I unplug it and stops making the noise. I’ll upload the video next week😂
That's not the sound of a bad alternator. That's the sound of an alternator that evolved into a supercharger.
perfect explanation..
Damn. Straight to the point, no bull shit. I like this guy👍
that ghostly whining sound. For years I thought it was my transmission, making the noise but come to find out it was the alternator.
Just happened to mine it drove me crazy. Toyota should have a video for this..Great diagnosis Brother 💪🏽💯👑
Nice! my Camry started this noise and died on my way home. right to the point good diagnose
Explanation is right to the point!
I don't understand what sound the alternator is making...
Robert Cozby it’s ticking
It's a low humming noise
@@Godisundefeated Perfect way to describe! My car started making that noise two weeks ago, I drove over 100 miles and then it died, took it to the shop after a jump, and thats the first thing he say. lol
@@vanessagordon1343 lol
@@vanessagordon1343 I thought I was over-reacting when I heard this sound and took it straight in to be looked at. Sure enough, it was the alternator. The guy said they don't really give any warning - 'you could keep driving a week or a month, maybe more, but sooner or later it'd get ya.'
Thank you so much for this video.
yup I had a transmission leak, at the same time, I was all worried my transmission was toast, then I saw this said "nah this is bs" sure enough once the bearing was unloaded, no sound. great video thanks for saving me aton of time !
This confirmed my suspicions, thank you!
Any idea why my LE 2010 Camry has that truck sound like this one does without the whining but when I turn my car off it makes this HUGE whining noise
Simple, concise, efficient thankyou
My alternator whines when the car warms up. It doesnt when its cold. And sometimes even if the engine is hot it randomly stops whining and then starts doing it again... Im so sick of it, reapired it twice, had to change the diode pack (this could be the thing causing the problem rn, because its not an oem part) and had to pull it apart because it had a wiring problem inside. Im just wondering now is it safe to keep driving it? I dont care if battery dies or whatever i just dont want it to catch on fire
Great video .. u r the man
If you're hearing a bad alternator sound in your vehicle, it could indicate a problem with the alternator or its components. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery and providing electrical power to the various systems in your car while the engine is running. Here are a few possible causes for a bad alternator sound:
1. Worn-out Bearings: The alternator has internal bearings that allow it to rotate smoothly. Over time, these bearings can wear out, leading to a grinding or whining noise. If you hear a growling or grinding sound coming from the alternator area, it's likely due to worn-out bearings.
2. Loose or Damaged Belts: The alternator is driven by a belt connected to the engine's crankshaft. If the belt becomes loose, worn, or damaged, it may cause a squealing or chirping noise. This sound can occur when the belt slips or when it rubs against other components.
3. Faulty Voltage Regulator: The voltage regulator is a component within the alternator that controls the electrical output. If the voltage regulator malfunctions, it can cause the alternator to produce irregular or excessive voltage, leading to electrical issues and potentially generating unusual sounds.
4. Failing Diodes: Alternators contain diodes that convert the alternating current (AC) produced by the alternator into direct current (DC) used by the vehicle's electrical system. When these diodes fail, they can cause a buzzing or whining noise.
If you suspect a problem with your alternator, it's best to have it inspected and repaired by a qualified mechanic. They will be able to diagnose the issue accurately and perform the necessary repairs or replacements to resolve the problem. Ignoring alternator issues can lead to a drained battery, electrical system failures, or even a breakdown while driving.
Bad alternator could be from the clutch, bearing, diodes, boards, etc. It is too many varieties. My original Nissan Altima 02 has bad bearing on the alternator. The replacement from Autozone with lifetime warranty have a bad clutch after 2 years/30k miles.
Same was the noise in my Daihatsu Cuore. I drove to the electrician and he replaced bearings but the sound is still there. Now he says that it is the noise of rectifier. By the way which component creates this sound?
How long can you keep your alternator unplugged while vehicle running?
Which part of the alternator is likely causing this noisy problem? Could it be the bearing, brush, or something else?
The process of elimination is key to fixing many things.
anything will stop making noises when you unplug it, lol
Yea but it’s not supposed to be making noise at all 😂
Laughed more than i should 😂😂😂😂
Oh man thank you
the noise I thought you were talking about must have been in the background cuz it didn't stop, lol
My 2011 camry is doing this. Do i need to replace the entire thing?
My car sounds exactly like this. It randomly starting making this noise except it's much louder than this. I went to a mechanic who told me it was the alternator I just wanted to make sure I wasn't being ripped off
Exact sound mines making. Thank you
Worked for me, thanks
Ok, mine does the same thing. Unplugged, there's no noise. But I've changed the alternator twice and the noise is still there. I'd say it's the voltage regulator but how do you fix it?
Is it safe/smart to unplug an alternator when it running, doesn't that mess up your electrical? 🤔
what happen if that sounds come up without unplugging it and run for long
Same sound but what if it continues when you unplug the alternator? Could it still be the alternator??
Whole time I thought I had a hellcat Camry till it won’t start nomore😂
Mines making a leaf blower sound, and it sucks because I paid 400 dollars for it. It's one of those car audio orientated ones
Unplugging the alternator while it’s on doesn’t cause any damage?
My car currently sounds like this when accelerating but not as bad, did the whole unit need replacing? Thanks
I have the same problem as you and I went to the shop, the guy said I need to replace it.
Thank you
What is the other sound That sounds kind of like a belt running? Not the whine of the alternater but the other sound that’s almost sounds like a less deep sounding Diesel engine
If you are referring to the clicking, it's the valve train I think.
I just got a brand new alternator and it’s still making this noise when accelerating like it did before my old alternator went to 💩
Can I drive home on that noise or should I unplug it and drive home
Bro don't unplug and drive lol
i heard it this morning
Thanks big help. I got 2006 camry le. And it was making the same noise and i done the same thing you did and it quite making a noise. Big help thx.
TGoogle user
The noise stop had to replace alternator.
where did you get the new alternator and how much it costs you ?
Listen to my video of my car squealing that is a bad altenator/ bad altenator clutch.
Dead diode in alternator makes that noise
What sound DOES a BAD alternator MAKES ??? im lost!
GOOD TO KNOW....
What was the Noise?..lol..Heard more noise inn background bubba..
Omg my 2012
Corolla car started making this sound and I was like huhh. Then the battery light went on and I couldn’t start my car unless I jumped it. Ugh so annoying
Or when the cars running just disconnect the battery if your car shuts off then u probably have a bad alternator
Is this a joke ?
I believe this could damage the electrical system on modern cars since the battery serves as a damper of harsh spikes put out by the alternator.
My Camry is making a whining noise but I unplugged it and it still making the noise??
What was it
What was it ?
shit, I got this noise for 1month now, and it appear when I changed the timing belt, I thought the belt was scrapping somewhere, I was making fun of it since it sounded like a compressor (on az 75hp car), but holy shit
I get this issue on my car two days a go finally yesterday my car can't run
Wish my alternator was easy to unplug
Makes my camry sound like a lexus lfa
Mine makes a similar noise that gets quiet after the engine has been on for more then a few minutes on days were the weather is not cold at all and when It Is cold out It takes longer to go away, could that be the same issue?
Jose Pina mine is similar, loud when I start it but goes down after it runs for a bit. I don’t know if I should wait to have it replaced or wait. Did you replace yours? Did it brake on you yet?
Jason B mine has been like this for about 7 months now and It still drives. I'm replacing the Serpentine belt when I get the chance and some pulley's If they're loose. And replace the power steering fluid with oem.
Mine is brand new lol
I change the alternator mines still making that noise…
do u mean the humming Sound?
Worms Hip Hop yes. In person it sounds like an electrical whine
I heard a "wooooo wooooo" sound when I step on gas or right after I start my car. After I unplug it, the sound goes away. my car just over 100,000 miles. so i guess it's about time to replace an alternator.
My car still makes the noise while I unplug it? Do you know anything about the Toyota Camry could it maybe be the idler pulley ?
@@trenyispretty9154 I have Scion tC and it has the same Toyota Camry engine. if you unplug the alternator cable and still make the same noise? then I am not sure. how many miles you had on alternator? if you had over 100,000 or had it for 10 years+, then it might be time to replace it.
@@jason0529 I bought it off a little rinky dinky car lot I’m not sure if they changed it last year or not it looks fairly new still has the sticker on it but that wouldn’t mean much huh?
@@trenyispretty9154 I see. the noise might come from other area. if it doesn't bother you that much then just leave it.
@@jason0529 took it to a mechanic I had to replace the tensioner pulley.
Remove serpentine belt and run engine
Might be helpful if you could actually hear it. 🙄
I do those but is not helping
Good thinking.
Wow so all I do is unplug it and problem solved 😱
Couldn't hear it at all.😂
I didn’t hear anything
What you don’t know nothing
I can't hear crap. 🤷🏽♂️😂
Shit.
Sorry but that alternator sounded good to me. Maybe if you was out of a shop it be different