Battery Warning Light

Mar 2nd, 2004, 21:34

Hi,

My battery warning lamp stays dimly lit after i've started my car. If i rev the engine or switch something on the lamp glows more. At first I just thought it was the fan belt slipping since it was squeeling, however i've changed that and it doesn't squeel anymore yet the light stays the same.

I've also put a new battery but thats made no difference either.

I have measured the voltage across the battery. At idle there is 13.7V , at 1500 there is 13.5V and at 2000 there is 13.2. Does this mean my alternator is knackered? I hope not still saving for a new clutch and oil seal.

Thanks Chris

Mar 2nd, 2004, 22:26

Chris,

Does the battery light illuminate when you turn the key in the ignition without starting the engine? If it doesn't then I'd say your alternator is gone.

Good luck

Andy

Martin Cox · Mar 2nd, 2004, 23:11

Chris,

These voltages sound a little low to me. I'd normally expect to see a minimum of 13.8V when the engine is running but usually about 14.4V.

Given the drive belt is correctly tensioned, I'd start by checking the wiring to the alternator and as Andy says, that the warning light comes on when the engine is stopped and the ignition on. Thereafter I'd suspect the alternator regulator. You used to be able to replace these quite cheaply. An auto electrician should be able to help and should be a darn sight cheaper than replacing the alternator.

Hope this is of some help

Martin Cox

Mar 2nd, 2004, 21:34	#1
Chris_82 Guest Location:	Battery Warning Light Hi, My battery warning lamp stays dimly lit after i've started my car. If i rev the engine or switch something on the lamp glows more. At first I just thought it was the fan belt slipping since it was squeeling, however i've changed that and it doesn't squeel anymore yet the light stays the same. I've also put a new battery but thats made no difference either. I have measured the voltage across the battery. At idle there is 13.7V , at 1500 there is 13.5V and at 2000 there is 13.2. Does this mean my alternator is knackered? I hope not still saving for a new clutch and oil seal. Thanks Chris

Mar 2nd, 2004, 22:26	#2
mraldonnelly Guest Location:	RE: Battery Warning Light Chris, Does the battery light illuminate when you turn the key in the ignition without starting the engine? If it doesn't then I'd say your alternator is gone. Good luck Andy

Mar 2nd, 2004, 23:11	#3
Martin Cox VOC Member Last Online: Yesterday 18:12 Join Date: Dec 2001 Location: Hull	RE: Battery Warning Light Chris, These voltages sound a little low to me. I'd normally expect to see a minimum of 13.8V when the engine is running but usually about 14.4V. Given the drive belt is correctly tensioned, I'd start by checking the wiring to the alternator and as Andy says, that the warning light comes on when the engine is stopped and the ignition on. Thereafter I'd suspect the alternator regulator. You used to be able to replace these quite cheaply. An auto electrician should be able to help and should be a darn sight cheaper than replacing the alternator. Hope this is of some help Martin Cox

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