Noise from a generator may be due to electrical or mechanical noise. Electrical noise or magnetic whine usually varies with the electrical load placed on the generator and is a normal operating characteristic of all generators. When diagnosing a noisy generator, it is important to remember that loose or misaligned components around the generator may transmit the noise into the passenger compartment and that replacing the generator may not solve the problem.
Step | Action | Yes | No | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information | ||||
2 | Test the generator for proper operation using the Generator Tester. Refer to Charging System Test . Is the generator operating properly? | Go to Step 3 | Go to Step 12 | ||||
3 |
Has the noise stopped? | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 4 | ||||
4 |
Does the generator shaft spin smoothly and without any roughness or grinding noise? | Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 12 | ||||
5 | Inspect the generator for a loose pulley and/or pulley nut. Is the generator pulley or pulley nut loose? | Go to Step 12 | Go to Step 6 | ||||
6 |
Has the noise decreased or stopped? | System OK | Go to Step 7 | ||||
7 | Inspect the generator for the following conditions:
Are any electrical connections pulling on the generator or are any hoses, etc. resting on the generator? | Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 9 | ||||
8 |
Has the noise decreased or stopped? | System OK | Go to Step 9 | ||||
9 | Inspect the drive belt for proper tension. Refer to Drive Belt Tensioner Diagnosis in Engine Mechanical - 2.0L or Drive Belt Tensioner Diagnosis in Engine Mechanical - 2.2L. Is the drive belt loose? | Go to Step 10 | Go to Step 11 | ||||
10 |
Has the noise decreased or stopped? | System OK | Go to Step 12 | ||||
11 | Compare the vehicle with a known good vehicle. Do both vehicles make the same noise? | System OK | Go to Step 12 | ||||
12 |
Important: If no definite generator problems were found, be sure that all other possible sources of objectionable noise are eliminated before replacing the generator. Replacing the generator may not change the noise level if the noise is a normal characteristic of the generator or the generator mounting. Replace the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement . Did you complete the replacement? | Go to Step 13 | -- | ||||
13 | Operate the system in order to verify the repair. Did you correct the condition? | System OK | Go to Step 2 |