If your dashboard is flickering and flashing like an old set of holiday lights, your car is trying to tell you something. Here's what you need to know about flickering dash lights.
Why Dashboard Lights Flicker When You're Driving
The dashboard lights in your car are connected to the electrical system and rely on consistent power to function properly. When those lights begin flickering, it's often a sign that something within the system isn't quite right, including:
1. Failing Alternator
Flickering dash lights can signify issues with the alternator. The alternator is responsible for recharging the battery while you drive and keeping the car's electrical system running while the engine is on. If this component is not charging the battery properly or is struggling to maintain a steady voltage, it can cause power fluctuations that can affect your vehicle's electronics and dash lights. In cases like these, your lights may flicker or even dim as your alternator struggles to supply power.
Ignoring alternator issues can lead to serious consequences. Head to your local Firestone Complete Auto Care, where a professional technician can determine if the alternator is the issue and let you know if it needs to be repaired or replaced.
Signs of a bad alternator include:
- Illuminated battery warning light
- Dim or overly bright lights
- Malfunctioning or slow-working accessories
- Trouble starting the car
- Frequent stalling
- Growling or whining noises
- Smell of burning rubber if the alternator has seized
2. Weak Battery
Another potential culprit for your dashboard lights flickering while driving could be a weak or dying battery. If your car battery isn't able to maintain a proper charge, it could be causing power to drop intermittently, which might explain why your dashboard lights flicker while driving.
A car battery in poor condition is often the root cause of lights on the dashboard flickering, and it may also prevent your car from starting altogether. Since this component plays a key role in powering your car's electrical system, it's best to have your battery tested at your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Our technicians can also install a new battery if necessary.
3. Faulty Voltage Regulator
The voltage regulator, normally integrated within the alternator, is another critical component of your car's electrical system. It controls the voltage sent from the alternator to the battery, ensuring that the electrical system runs smoothly without overcharging or undercharging. If you're experiencing issues like dimming headlights or malfunctioning electrical components, it could indicate a problem with your voltage regulator.
To pinpoint a faulty voltage regulator, your technician will likely perform tests to check the alternator's output and the overall voltage stability in the car's electrical system. If the regulator is found to be faulty, the alternator may need to be replaced to prevent further electrical disruptions.
Dashboard Lights Flickering and Car Won't Start? Here's Why
It's frustrating when you turn the key and your car won't start, especially if the dashboard lights are flickering at the same time. This can often indicate a battery issue. If the battery is old, undercharged, or faulty, it may not be providing enough power to the car's electrical system to start the engine, leading to flickering lights on the dashboard. A weak battery may still have enough power to make the dashboard lights flicker but not enough to turn the engine over.
Other potential causes of flickering dash lights when your car won't start include:
- Bad battery due to a failed alternator
- Dirty or loose battery cables
- Bad control modules
Why Are My Headlights and Dash Lights Flickering?
In some cases, flickering lights might not be limited to just your dashboard. You could notice that your headlights are going in and out as well. This situation usually points to a problem with the car's alternator.
The alternator powers both the headlights and the dashboard lights, so if it's struggling to provide a consistent voltage, both your headlights and dashboard lights may flicker in tandem. This can be particularly noticeable at night when your headlights are in use, and the flickering lights can make it harder to see clearly.
Have Your Flickering Dash Lights Checked at Firestone Complete Auto Care
Whether your vehicle has a bad battery or the alternator is on its way out, our technicians can take a look and get to the root of the problem. We'll make sure your car is fixed right, priced right, right on time. Schedule an appointment today!
