Battery or Alternator problem

JEFFYONKER

MEMBER
1996 SATURN SL1
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
120,000 MILES

My daughter's 1996 SL1 is having the "check battery" light going on while driving and the headlights dim. Is this just an old 5 year old battery or possibly an alternator problem?

Saturday, December 11th, 2010 AT 5:17 PM

4 Replies

JDL

MECHANIC
16,098 POSTS

I'd make sure the battery has a full charge and the charging system is ok. Have to test when problem is ongoing. Some of the national brand autostores will do the testing for you. They will also check for applicable trouble codes. If you have a digital multimeter, we can help you with some testing.

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Saturday, December 11th, 2010 AT 5:23 PM

JDL

MECHANIC
16,098 POSTS

Just wanted to add, engine running, the alternator should carry the load.

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Saturday, December 11th, 2010 AT 5:31 PM

FIXITMR

MECHANIC
9,990 POSTS

Lights going dim/dash warning light on indicates alternator not charging.

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Tuesday, December 14th, 2010 AT 7:12 PM

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,938 POSTS

You can do a basic charge rate check with a volt meter Pos to the main output on the alternator and Neg to chassis earth, you will be wanting to see 13.5 Volts there abouts depending on battery charge, do not test by running and removing battery terminal as the voltage spike when reconnected can blow the ECU out of the water so to speak.

Mark (mhpautos)

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Friday, December 17th, 2010 AT 8:54 AM