What symptom might indicate a faulty alternator?

A repeated battery failure is a clear indicator of a faulty alternator because the alternator is responsible for charging the battery while the engine is running. If the alternator is malfunctioning, it may not provide sufficient voltage to recharge the battery effectively, leading to a situation where the battery depletes quickly. Over time, this can result in the battery failing to start the vehicle or holding a charge.

The other symptoms listed may relate to various issues but do not specifically indicate problems with the alternator. Engine overheating is typically associated with cooling system failures, excessive tire wear suggests alignment or suspension problems, and unusual engine noises could indicate many potential issues but are not directly linked to alternator function. Thus, recurrent battery failures stand out as a specific sign that points to alternator troubles.