Will a bad alternator make a check engine light come on?
A faulty alternator not only turns the check engine light on, it also risks your safety. If the alternator fails when you’re driving, the car radio will go off, the interior lights will dim, and you will experience extreme difficulty in driving.
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.
Is there an alternator warning light on or off?
OK update no more dash alternator warnings . the new alternator works , old one was stuffed . I had the same alternator warning on and off. I was driving in Engineering mode all the time and keeping an eye on the battery charge. It got up to 73.3% then it will start charging again. Today it got up to 43.1% then the Battery Saver mode turned on.
Where can I go to test my alternator and charging system?
If any testing or replacement of your alternator or charging system becomes too difficult of a job, consider visiting one of our Preferred Repair Shops in your area can help you diagnose and repair any faults in the charging system.
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?
OK update no more dash alternator warnings . the new alternator works , old one was stuffed . I had the same alternator warning on and off. I was driving in Engineering mode all the time and keeping an eye on the battery charge. It got up to 73.3% then it will start charging again. Today it got up to 43.1% then the Battery Saver mode turned on.
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.
When does the alternator turn on the idiot light?
When the engine starts and gets up to a high enough rpm for the alternator to start putting out voltage, there is a diode inside that takes some of the output voltage and featured back to the terminal that goes to the idiot light.
If any testing or replacement of your alternator or charging system becomes too difficult of a job, consider visiting one of our Preferred Repair Shops in your area can help you diagnose and repair any faults in the charging system.