Let's play a hypothetical game. You're driving along the road and your car suddenly dies - what do you do? For some Americans, this scenario could cause real panic and anxiety. Don't worry; here is some helpful information that will inform you how to spot vehicle defects before you hit the road. Also, should there be a defective part on your vehicle; the necessary information will be given at the end of the article.

The heart of an automobile's problems may come through the alternator. This key part is responsible for supplying power to many important functions in your vehicle. It maintains the battery by creating the power to keep it fully charged and is also responsible for the use of the headlights. The problems might start with a dash light appearing or the headlights dimming; there could also be a foreign smell or sound coming from the front hood of the vehicle. Here are five problems that may stem from an alternative problem:

• Warning lights;
• Dim lights;
• The three senses;
• Dead battery; and
• Loosened or fractured connectors

Warning lights such as an "ALT" or "Gen" means alternator or generator; when this light pops up on your dashboard it could mean that the battery is in jeopardy, but it also could mean that the alternator is having problems. Many alternators function at a level of 13 to 14.5 volts; problems can persist when the alternator is using too much energy. The ALT or Gen light will pop up when this happens. At first it will blink for a second, but as the problem gets worse the dashboard light will stay on; the function of this light is to let the driver know that the alternator may have a problem or need to be replaced. The light on the dashboard might come on when your headlights, windshield, radio, rear window defroster, or heated seats are in use.

The next problem which could be an indicator of alternator malfunctions is dimmed lights. This can be seen in adverse headlights reactions; one moment the lights are dim while the next moment the lights are extremely bright. Most times, the manufacturer will put a list of parts to malfunction first when the alternator is going out. The reason for this is that the main gadgets needed to function will work in case a driver needs to stop or pull over for safety.

Sight, smell, and sound are imperative if the alternator is not functioning properly. Looking under the hood to see if the timing belt is tightened, but not overly stretched is an option should you have problems. If you hear a noise that sounds irregular such as a low mumble or a whooshing sound it could mean that the crankshaft pulley and the belt are not well aligned. Also, a pulley that isn't aligned properly could start making a burning smell. Talk to a trusted mechanic about these problems and he may be able to fix it.

All car batteries need to be replaced every couple of years. Yet, sometimes a dead battery does not mean that it is malfunctioning: sometimes the alternator is not functioning at its proper output level and will therefore not be able to power the battery. When a battery is dead it will make a round of clicking noises when the key is turning. If you need to distinguish between a dead battery and a problem with the alternator, jump start the car. If the car turns off after it is jumped it means that it is usually the alternator, though all batteries will eventually need to be replaced, you might be able to drive for a little while longer without having to replace it.

Lastly, sometimes a dead battery could be an indicator that a wire is loose or broken. The alternator uses those connectors to distribute power throughout the vehicle. Should one of these problems lead you to be stranded, call a tow truck and a loved one as soon as possible. Other defects that might require special circumstances such as a vehicle malfunction must be reported directly to the car manufacturer. They are required to report any complaint to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) within five days. You may also contact the NHSTA via the telephone or the internet as they are responsible for most U.S. vehicle recalls.