You are miles from nowhere when suddenly, your headlights dim, your dashboard flickers, and your car starts losing power. No, it’s not a scene from an action thriller—it’s a sign that your alternator might be failing. But how do you know when it’s time to replace it? Let’s break down the signs before your car breaks down on you.
What is an alternator?
The alternator is a small but mighty component responsible for keeping your battery charged and your vehicle’s electrical systems running smoothly. It converts kinetic energy into electrical energy. That energy charges your car’s battery so that it can start and also powers your car when running. Over time, wear and tear can reduce the alternator’s efficiency, preventing it from fully charging the battery. While there’s no exact timeframe for replacement, alternators typically last between 100,000 and 150,000 miles. It’s risky to drive a car with a bad alternator. It can leave you stranded.
Bad battery or bad alternator?
Since the alternator and battery work closely together, sometimes the signs you are seeing could mean you need to replace the battery and not the alternator. Consider the age of both parts and their condition. The average battery life is 3-5 years, so if your battery hasn’t been replaced in that long, check that first.
Signs of a bad battery:
Your vehicle is hard to start or won’t start at all.
You hear a clicking noise when trying to start the car, or it takes longer for the engine to catch.
You notice dim or flickering headlights, taillights or dashboard lights.
Your car consistently has a dead battery. This could also be due to a bad alternator.
Signs of a bad alternator:
You notice dim or very bright headlights. (This is due to the inconsistent flow of electricity generated by the alternator.)
Your vehicle doesn’t start.
Your lights and gauges dim, and then your car stalls when driving.
You notice a burnt rubber smell and/or loud grinding noise.
Do you have a multimeter? That’s a surefire way to know if the alternator is failing. When the car is not running, check the voltage at the battery. It should be between 12 and 12.5 volts. Then check the voltage again when the car is running.  The voltage level should increase between 13.5 and 14.5. If the voltage does not increase, the alternator is bad. If it does increase, yet you are still experiencing some of the issues listed above, then it is likely that the battery is bad.
How to Replace the Alternator
You can certainly take your car to your mechanic for an alternator replacement. However, if you’re handy and have some experience working on cars, here is a guide to replacing your alternator.
Pro tip: take photos of each piece before disconnecting them so you know how to hook everything back up.
 Check Your Vehicle’s Manual: Identify the type of alternator you need and purchase it.
Gather Your Supplies: Get a socket and wrench set, gloves, safety glasses, and a memory saver. A memory saver provides a small current to preserve your car’s electronics and prevent the need for reprogramming; it typically plugs into the power port.
Backup Electronic Data (if needed): Refer to your manual to determine if backing up preset electronic data from your car’s computer is necessary.
Turn Off the Engine: Shut off your car’s engine and put on your safety gear.
Disconnect the Battery: Remove the negative cable from the car battery. Disconnecting the positive cable is optional.
Loosen the Belt Tensioner: Release the tension on the serpentine belt and remove it. Inspect the belt for wear and tear, replacing it if needed.
Remove Alternator Attachments: Disconnect all cables and bolts securing the alternator, including the voltage regulator connector, the alternator’s positive cable, the brace nut and bolt, and the lower mounting bolt.
Replace the Alternator: Remove the old alternator and install the new one in the same position.
Reassemble: Reattach all previously disconnected components.
Test Voltage: If available, use a multimeter to ensure the voltage reads between 13.5 and 14.5 volts when running.
Maintaining Your Alternator
You also can take steps to reduce the wear and tear on your alternator and keeping it working at its best.
Schedule regular maintenance and ask your mechanic to check the alternator every time. Regular maintenance also will help your car last longer.
Regularly clean your alternator to remove dirt, grease, and debris. These can cause it to overheat.
Tighten loose connections that can affect the alternator’s performance.
Look out for fluid leaks around the alternator. Fluid and oil buildup can shorten an alternator’s lifespan. Identify the source of the leak as soon as possible. (Usually, it’s not the alternator that is leaking.)
Keep your belts in good condition. Worn belts can loosen the alternator mountings.
Be careful with aftermarket electronics. Improperly installing them can overload the alternator.
Maintain and replace your battery as needed so that you will know that it’s not the battery if your vehicle’s electrical system fails.
Finally, the right coverage for your vehicle is important for added peace of mind. Schedule an annual review with your insurer to make sure your vehicle is fully protected. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
You’re ready to hit the road, but your car has other plans—stuck in a snowbank with tires spinning. Before your frustration gets out of hand, take a deep breath. With the right techniques and a little patience, you can free your vehicle and get back on track. Here’s your step-by-step guide to escape the snow’s icy grip without breaking a sweat—or your car!
1. Stay Safe and Assess the Situation
Before doing anything, ensure you’re safe. Turn on your hazard lights and assess the situation. Are other vehicles nearby? Make sure you’re visible to others and have enough space to work around your car safely.
2. Clear the Exhaust Pipe
Check your car’s tailpipe for snow and ice. A clogged exhaust can cause dangerous carbon monoxide to back up into the vehicle’s cabin. Clearing it is a critical safety step before you start working to free your car.
Use a shovel or any sturdy tool to remove snow around the tires, under the car, and along the path you want to travel. Clearing as much snow as possible will make it easier to gain traction and move forward.
4. Try Melting the Snow
If the snow around your wheels is packed and icy, try sprinkling salt or a de-icing agent. Be cautious, as salt can cause rust on your vehicle, and some chemicals may be harmful to pets and the environment.
5. Add Traction
Improve your grip by spreading dry materials like sand, kitty litter, or even your car’s floor mats under the tires. These items can provide the friction needed to get your car moving.
Pro Tip: Lower your window slightly to listen for spinning wheels as you press on the gas. If you hear them spinning, it’s not working.
6. Choose the Right Driving Technique
Depending on your type of vehicle, you will want to take advantage of its strengths.
4-Wheel Drive: If your vehicle has a 4-wheel drive option, turn it on to deliver power to all wheels. Use a low gear in an automatic to reduce wheel spinning.
Front-Wheel Drive: Turn your steering wheel left and right repeatedly to find a patch of traction.
Manual Transmission: Start in second gear to reduce wheel spin and increase grip.
7. Turn Off Traction Control
Your traction control system can prevent your wheels from spinning, which helps in skids but can hinder your efforts when stuck. Temporarily disable it to give your wheels the power they need to move.
8. Rock Your Vehicle
Gently rock your car by shifting between forward and reverse gears. Apply light gas pressure—avoid flooring it—and stop if it’s not working after a few tries to prevent transmission damage.
9. Let Air Out of Your Tires
In extreme cases, slightly deflate your tires to increase surface contact and improve traction. Only do this if you’re near a place to reinflate them, as driving on underinflated tires can be dangerous.
10. Call for Roadside Assistance
If all else fails, it’s time to call for help. Roadside assistance professionals have the tools and expertise to safely free your vehicle.
After You’re Unstuck
Once your car is free, pull over in a safe spot and inspect your tires. Spinning wheels can pack snow and ice into the treads, making steering difficult. Use a snow scraper to clear them and restore proper grip. Don’t forget to turn your traction control back on before resuming your drive. Follow winter driving safety tips to prevent any future issues.
Be Prepared for the Future
Getting stuck in deep snow can damage your car’s transmission, battery, or drivetrain. Get your car checked out if you have been stuck in deep snow.
In addition, prepare for any future incidents. Keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle, including:
Finally, make sure your vehicle is protected for winter with the right insurance. This will help add peace of mind. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
There’s no place like home. It’s where life unfolds, memories are made, and your most treasured belongings reside. Protecting it means safeguarding not only your possessions but also your sense of security. From simple habits to smart upgrades, here are some practical tips that keep your home safe and your peace of mind intact.
Secure your doors and windows.
Your doors and windows are the primary entry points to your home, so it’s essential to ensure they only welcome invited guests. Here’s how to keep them secure.
Check and maintain locks: Regularly inspect locks on doors and windows. Repair or replace any that are broken or show signs of wear.
Lock up when you leave: Always keep doors and windows closed and locked when you’re not at home to deter unwanted visitors.
Install window alarms: Affordable, adhesive window alarms are a simple way to deter burglars. These devices emit a loud sound if tampered with, scaring off potential threats.
Enhance front door visibility: Ensure you can see who’s at your door without opening it, whether through a peephole, camera, or nearby window. This reduces the risk of letting in uninvited visitors.
Light your home inside and out.
Lighting isn’t just about setting the right mood—it’s also a powerful tool for keeping your home secure.
Illuminate the exterior: Ensure outdoor areas like entryways, driveways, and pathways are well-lit to make your property less appealing to unwanted visitors.
Use layered lighting: Combine porch lights, path lights, and landscape lighting to eliminate dark spots around your home, making it harder for anyone to hide.
Install motion sensor lights: These lights activate with movement, startling potential intruders and drawing attention to their presence.
Automate your lighting: Use a smart device or timer to turn lights on and off when you’re away. This creates the illusion that someone is home.
Landscape your yard with safety in mind. Â
Take a look at your landscaping. Are there spots where intruders could hide, or easy access points like tree branches that could lead to an upstairs window?
Clear overgrown areas: Remove any dense bushes, tall grass, or other overgrown spots that could provide hiding places near your home.
Trim trees: Ensure tree branches are cut back so they don’t offer a foothold to access upper windows or levels.
Secure your outdoor valuables: Make sure that your grill, lawn mower, and bicycles are out of sight. Lock your shed and your garage.
Walk your property: Approach your home as if you were a stranger. Look for areas where an intruder could observe your comings and goings without being noticed. Take action to eliminate those hiding spots.
Invest in a security system.
A professionally installed security system not only deters burglars but also alerts authorities in the event of a break-in.
Keep your alarm panel hidden: Avoid placing your alarm panel in view of the outside, where someone could see you arming or disarming it.
Test your system regularly: Ensure your security system is functioning properly by testing it periodically.
Address faulty alarms: If your alarm goes off frequently for no reason, that can cause it to be ignored. Have it repaired. Then tell your neighbors it is fixed.
Advertise your security system: Display a window sticker or lawn sign to let potential intruders know your home is protected.
Don’t advertise to potential intruders.
Sharing certain information or leaving items visible can attract burglars and provide them with the perfect opportunity to strike. Protect your home by taking these precautions.
Keep valuables out of sight: Avoid placing valuable items where they’re visible from the street, such as near windows or in open garages. Keep your most important items in a safe.
Secure garage windows and doors: Frost or cover garage windows to prevent anyone from peeking inside and always keep the garage door closed when not in use.
Be cautious on social media: Avoid posting about recent purchases. Don’t share vacation photos while you’re away.
Avoid obvious signals: Never leave notes on your door indicating you’re not home.
Don’t leave spare keys outside: Common hiding spots like under a planter or welcome mat are the first places burglars will check. Instead, leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or friend.
Don’t have packages on your porch.
Porch pirates are a common danger in many neighborhoods, but a few simple steps can make it harder for them to steal your deliveries.
Choose secure delivery locations: Have packages delivered to a secure pickup location or a locker if possible.
Request signature confirmation: Require a signature for delivery to ensure someone is home to receive the package.
Disguise your disposal: Avoid leaving branded boxes from expensive items, like TVs, in your trash or recycling where they’re visible. Break them down and conceal them to avoid drawing attention.
Establish a home safety network.
Do the things you need to do on a regular basis to check in on security for your home and your area.
Get to know your neighbors: Build a network of trust by watching out for each other’s homes and reporting any suspicious activity.
Connect with local police: Ask local law enforcement about past incidents in your area so you can take precautions against those types of incidents.
Plan for when you are away: Stop mail deliveries or ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail, newspapers, etc. Arrange for services like lawn care, snow removal, or garbage pickup to make your home appear occupied.
Finally protect your home and your belongings with the right insurance, including personal property coverage. Taking these steps gives you peace of mind and ensures your home is protected no matter where life takes you.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
Balancing work and personal life during the holidays can feel like a juggling act. That’s especially true for shift workers on the front line—EMTs, nurses, police officers, and firefighters. While others are wrapping gifts or planning holiday feasts, you’re often working long shifts, answering urgent calls, or preparing for the next day’s challenges. Even if you’re not a first responder, chances are the holidays are a stressful and hectic time with shopping, family gatherings, and a long to-do list.
But here’s the good news: with a little planning and focusing on what really matters, you can still soak up the festive spirit and make it all work.
Set Boundaries
Communicate your availability to family, friends, and colleagues in advance.
Be clear about work commitments and carve out protected time for personal activities.
If you’re feeling pressured from friends or family to do more—buy more gifts, cook more food, or attend every gathering—remember that it’s okay to say no.
Know your stressors and take steps to minimize or avoid them.
Embrace Teamwork and Flexibility
Coordinate with coworkers to swap shifts or share responsibilities, ensuring everyone gets some holiday time.
Be open to celebrating on alternate days if you’re scheduled to work on the holiday.
Don’t take on more than you can handle. Work with your team to prioritize what really needs to be done, and what can wait.
Be flexible. Things won’t always go the way you planned. Keep your attitude positive and adjust as needed.
Plan Micro-Moments of Joy
Integrate small holiday traditions into your daily routine, like sipping hot cocoa during a break or wearing festive socks.
Bring the holiday spirit to work by decorating your workspace or sharing treats with colleagues.
Notice the little moments of the season—the bustle of a holiday market, the scent of gingerbread cookies, the feeling of warmth and connection with those around you.
Enjoy a quiet moment among the holiday decorations after loved ones have gone to bed. Reflect on the true meaning of the season.
Simplify Holiday Expectations
Focus on meaningful, stress-free traditions rather than trying to do everything perfectly.
Delegate tasks like cooking or gift shopping to family members or opt for simpler solutions like potluck dinners.
Avoid over-scheduling yourself. Prioritize activities that truly matter to you and your loved ones, and don’t feel pressured to participate in every event.
Limit gift-giving. Instead of buying multiple gifts, consider giving a meaningful single gift, writing heartfelt cards, or even creating a holiday tradition of spending quality time together.
Celebrate Togetherness Around Your Schedule
Find opportunities to connect with loved ones, even briefly, such as a quick morning coffee or exchanging handwritten notes.
Invite family or friends to join you for breakfast or lunch if you’re working late shifts.
Participate in community events or host small gatherings around your schedule.
Use technology to stay connected, like video calls during downtime.
Ensure you’re eating well, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep to maintain energy and focus.
Schedule time for activities that help you decompress, such as exercise, meditation, or a favorite hobby.
Leave work at work. Spend your off-duty time focusing on your needs.
Disconnect from social media and you’ll be surprised at how much time it adds to your day.Â
Schedule Everything
Write everything into your schedule so you’ll have a better idea of your commitments. Then cross off anything that doesn’t align with your values or bring you joy.
Give yourself the gift of time. Put personal downtime in your schedule and honor it as you would an appointment or commitment.
Add a holiday cushion of extra time between appointments so you’re not constantly rushing.
Not everything has to be scheduled during the holidays. Push some of your commitments beyond the holiday and into the new year. This is an easy way to extend the season while reducing your stress.
Reflect and Express Gratitude
Take time to acknowledge the importance of your work and the impact you have on others.
Keep a gratitude journal where you write down moments of thankfulness, big or small, to help cultivate a positive mindset throughout the season.
Share gratitude with coworkers and family to create a positive, uplifting environment.
Practice mindfulness to appreciate the moments you have with loved ones, no matter how brief.
As you navigate the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, remember to prioritize what matters most—your well-being, your loved ones, and the moments that bring you joy. From all of us at California Casualty, we wish you a stress-free, joyful holiday season filled with peace, gratitude, and unforgettable memories. Happy holidays!
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
It’s time to spoil the real VIPs in our lives—our pets and the people who love them! Whether you’re shopping for a cat cuddler, a dog devotee, or the proud parent of a feathered friend, finding the perfect gift can make tails wag, whiskers twitch, and hearts melt. From paw-some gadgets to cozy pet accessories, we’ve got a gift guide that’s sure to delight both two-legged and four-legged family members.
For Pets
Bow Wow Labs Buddy Safety Bully Stick Holder
Our dogs love bully sticks but when they get too short, they can become a choking hazard. This bully stick holder helps keep pups safe while chewing and ensures they enjoy their treats to the fullest without worry.
Drinking Fountain
Cats love to drink from running water, and this fountain provides a fresh, flowing drink that encourages hydration. There are many varieties available at a range of price points.
Hide and Slide Treat Dispensing Toy
Dogs must slide blocks and move flippers in order to access the hidden treats in this puzzle toy. Not only does it provide mental stimulation, but it’s also a great way to redirect your pup’s energy away from less desirable behaviors.
Interactive Laser
Keep your kitty entertained with this automatic laser toy that creates random patterns and movements. With 15 minutes of hands-free play and an automatic shutoff feature, it’s an ideal gift for busy cat parents who want to keep their feline friends active and happy.
Matching Hoodies
Choose a matching hoodie—or PJs or sweaters—for you and your pup to twin in style. This particular gift donates a portion of the sales to rescues so you’re giving while getting!
Matching Collar and Owner Friendship Bracelet
Celebrate the bond with your pet by sporting matching accessories! These stylish sets are available for dogs and cats, allowing you to show off your special friendship in a fun and fashionable way.
Pet Cactus Lick Mat
This cleverly designed lick mat helps soothe cats and dogs during stressful moments like grooming, baths, or nail trims. Its maze-like surface not only entertains pets but also gently removes food particles from their tongues, promoting healthier teeth and gums.
Talking Pet Starter Set
If only your dog or cat could talk…well, with this recordable button set, they just might start. Developed by a speech therapist, this could be a fun activity for you and your best friend.
For Pet Parents
Dog Bingo
Dog lovers will enjoy seeing their favorite breeds on this bingo board. It’s a guaranteed hit at your next game night. Don’t worry, cat lovers, there’s a cat version, too.
Doormat
Proclaim your love for pets with a fun doormat or a personalized one. Choose a washable version to make cleaning up those muddy pawprints a breeze.
Furbo Dog Camera
Watch your pet when you’re not at home with this 360-degree camera. The Furbo camera offers two-way audio and treat-dispensing capabilities, making it a must-have for pet parents who want to stay connected while away from home.
Grounds and Hounds Coffee Club
Coffee lovers and dog enthusiasts alike will appreciate this coffee club. Every purchase helps support rescue organizations, so you can enjoy your morning brew knowing you’re making a difference. Their gift selection includes fun items for both pets and humans too.
Greeting Cards
Not only does this greeting card company feature rescue dogs on their cards, they donate a portion of their proceeds to rescue organizations. Their pet-themed notecards make wonderful gifts.
Novelty Socks
Show your love with socks featuring your pet’s photo. Or find socks that have the right message, such as you can’t get up because the dog is on your lap. You can buy socks that save dogs and cats too.
Pet Backpack
Carry your pet around in style with a backpack that looks like the one Taylor Swift used for her cat in the Netflix documentary, Miss Americana. Chewy also has a list of their best 10 options in a variety of price ranges.
Pet Portrait
Commission a portrait of your fur baby or feathered friend. You can even find a cartoon version or put your pet on your favorite mug or other item. For a DIY take on a pet portrait, order one that the recipient can paint by number.
Finally, don’t forget to protect your fur baby with pet insurance for added peace of mind, and to save on your vet bill. Remember, you can easily add pet insurance from Pet’s Best to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Find out more about what pet insurance can cover by talking with a California Casualty customer service representative today.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
