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charging problem :(

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632 views 2 replies 3 participants last post by  earthworm  
#1 ·
its about 30 degrees tonite.

i was driving home from work. warmed up the car a little. then started driving. temps were kinda low but rose gradually. after 5-10 minutes of driving the battery light starts to turn on. i proceed to turn off the radio, heated seat and pressed the black panel button. still on. as im getting home it goes away but my interior lights are dim. i get home, park and try to see if i can get my lights back up. nothing. i disconnect the battery and car shuts off :(. wouldnt the alternator die gradually instead of all at once?

if it helps i had to give my other car jump starts about 4 times this week past but the car was still running great.
 
#3 ·
The alternator does indeed "die" gradually, as the brushes wear down.. The alternator light, when aglow, is saying "the battery voltage exceeds the charging voltage".

To test, use a load tester with a multimeter, but do not disconnect the battery with the engine running - this is too risky with all the cars electronics.