Charging System Problems & Remedies

Problems & Remedies

The most common causes of the alternator light coming on are:

1. Low electrolyte levels
2. Slipping or broken alternator belt
3. Corrosion between the battery posts and the battery cable terminals
4. Faulty charging system
5. Defective battery

If the electrolyte levels are fine, the alternator belt okay and the battery terminal connections are free from corrosion, have the battery and charging system tested at an auto parts or battery store. Ask the mechanic to do an alternator output test to check if the alternator is charging.

NB: A new battery can cause a weak alternator or starter to fail.

It the alternator light comes on and stays on

Pull over immediately and check the tension on the alternator belt.

NEVER attempt to drive with a loose or broken alternator belt. Most alternator belts also turn the water pump; and driving with a disabled water pump can seriously damage to your car's engine.

• If the current weather is cold - this can reduce to around fifteen minutes.
• If you are driving at night with full lights - this can also reduce the time significantly.

If you suspect your car may have alternator problems, contact a qualified mechanic in your area.

Alternator light comes on during acceleration, then stops when idling

Most likely, the diodes inside the alternator are faulty. Replace the alternator.

Do not ever remove battery cables form the vehicle while running. The Computer system in the car uses a battery to act like a shock absorber for the system, electrically. This can damage your computer component, which is extremely expensive to repair/replace.

Alternator light comes on erractically and electrics slow

If from time to time, you lights dim and electrical components slow down, then return to normal, your alternator is probably short circuiting internally. Replace the alternator

Alternator light flickers on momentarily

The alternator is on its way out. Replace alternator

To test the alternator:

1. Whilst running the car, take the positive terminal off your battery.
2. 1. If the car continues to run strong for a few good seconds, then the problem is not the alternator.
   2. If it rumbles and dies down, or shuts off, then your alternator needs replacing.
3. Hook a voltmeter to the positive outlet on the alternater and earth the other. if the voltmeter reads less than 14.4 to 12 volts there is a problem with the alternator.

The battery light is on

The battery light on means the alternator is not charging the battery. Have both the battery and alternator checked.

Alternator Noise

If the alternator is making a grumbling or squealing noise

Check that it is the alternator making this noise by removing the drive belt; start the vehicle, and see if the noise went away. if it did, replace the alternator.

Replacing An Alternator

Replacing the alternator is quite simple. Only use new or high quality rebuilt alternators. Budget alternators can give all sorts of problems with false voltage indications, causing indicator lights to go on erroneously:

1. Disconnect the battery
2. Remove main drive belt
3. Remove alternator main mounting bolts and electrical connectors
4. Replace alternator
5. Reassemble.
   

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