Why does AutoZone test the alternator and charging system?
Keep in mind, when you test your charging system while the car is running, or AutoZone does the same, the system voltage is being tested at the battery, and if it’s not getting a charge, the test cannot determine why. Either the alternator itself is at fault, or the wiring between it and the battery are.
What’s the best way to test an alternator?
Tools for Testing an Alternator There are two tools that can be used to test an alternator. One is the battery and charging system tester while the other is the voltmeter. The battery and charging system charger can detect whether there is a problem with the charging system of a vehicle.
What does it mean when your alternator is not charging?
If the voltage is still only 12.4-12.6 once the engine is running, then the charging system is not functioning. In most cases and in most vehicles, you will have a battery light illuminated that indicates that the alternator is not charging.
What should voltage be between battery and alternator?
Very low differences in voltage between the battery and alternator should also be suspect – say – 12.8 volts at the battery. The first course of action is to check the wiring carefully that runs between the alternator’s main power wire and the battery.
Tools for Testing an Alternator There are two tools that can be used to test an alternator. One is the battery and charging system tester while the other is the voltmeter. The battery and charging system charger can detect whether there is a problem with the charging system of a vehicle.
Keep in mind, when you test your charging system while the car is running, or AutoZone does the same, the system voltage is being tested at the battery, and if it’s not getting a charge, the test cannot determine why. Either the alternator itself is at fault, or the wiring between it and the battery are.
If the voltage is still only 12.4-12.6 once the engine is running, then the charging system is not functioning. In most cases and in most vehicles, you will have a battery light illuminated that indicates that the alternator is not charging.
How much current does it take to charge an alternator?
Equally important, it takes only a very small amount of constant current to energize L and keep the alternator operating. I’ve measured current flow on many L circuits; typically, it’s only 5 to 8 milliamps (.005 to .008 amp) with the alternator operating normally.
What should I do if my alternator is not working?
The first course of action is to check the wiring carefully that runs between the alternator’s main power wire and the battery. A worn, loose, or damaged connector can cause a massive voltage drop. If everything appears fine, the alternator should be removed and bench tested, which can be done for free at AutoZone.
Why did my Honda alternator fail a test?
They hooked up the test tool and said that the battery was good, starter was good, but the alternator is bad because the voltage regulator test failed. I called the Honda dealer near me and ordered a new alternator. The wait time was 1 day.
Can a worn alternator cause a voltage drop?
A worn, loose, or damaged connector can cause a massive voltage drop. If everything appears fine, the alternator should be removed and bench tested, which can be done for free at AutoZone. What if the Alternator Tests Fine?
They hooked up the test tool and said that the battery was good, starter was good, but the alternator is bad because the voltage regulator test failed. I called the Honda dealer near me and ordered a new alternator. The wait time was 1 day.
The first course of action is to check the wiring carefully that runs between the alternator’s main power wire and the battery. A worn, loose, or damaged connector can cause a massive voltage drop. If everything appears fine, the alternator should be removed and bench tested, which can be done for free at AutoZone.
What happens when the alternator dies on a car?
Because the alternator supplies current to the vehicle’s electrical systems, this is where you’ll notice most that something is amiss. Dead Battery: Your car battery will die without a working alternator to keep it charged. If your battery dies, you should test the battery (free at AutoZone).