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Charging System Troubleshooting

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Battery will not hold a charge

1. Alternator drive belt defective or not adjusted properly.
2. Electrolyte level low or battery discharged.
3. Battery terminals loose or corroded
4. Alternator not charging properly
5. Loose, broken or faulty wiring in the charging circuit.
6. Short in the vehicle wiring causing a continuous drain on the battery.
7. Battery defective internally.

Ignition light fails to go out

1. Fault in the alternator or charging circuit
2. Alternator drive belt defective or not properly adjusted

Ignition light fails to come on when key is turned on

1. Instrument cluster warning light bulb defective
2. Alternator faulty
3. Fault in the instrument cluster printed circuit, dashboard wiring or bulb holder

Charging System Problems

Problem Cause Solution
Noisy Alternator
  • Loose mountings
  • Loose drive pulley
  • Worn bearings
  • Brush noise
  • Internal circuits shorted (High pitch wine)
  • Tighten mounting bolts
  • Tighten pulley
  • Replace alternator
  • Replace Alternator
  • Replace alternator
Squeal when starting engine or accelerating
  • Glazed or loose belt
  • Replace or adjust belt
Indicator light remains on or ammeter indicates discharge (engine running)
  • Broken belt
  • Broken or disconnected wires
  • Internal alternator problems
  • Defective voltage regulator
  • Install belt
  • Repair or correct wiring
  • Replace alternator
  • Replace voltage regulator/alternator
Car light bulbs continually burn out - battery needs water continually
  • Alternator/regulator overcharging
  • Replace voltage regulator/alternator
Car lights flare on acceleration
  • Battery low
  • Internal alternator/regulator problems
  • Charge or replace battery
  • Replace alternator/regulator
Low voltage output (alternator light flickers continually or ammeter needle wanders)
  • Loose or worn belt
  • Dirty or corroded connections
  • Internal alternator/regulator problems
  • Replace or adjust belt
  • Clean or replace connections
  • Replace alternator/regulator

For more information on your charging system and how to check it, click HERE.

 

 

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