Nissan Stanza Warning Lights

TJSTONG

MEMBER
NISSAN

I have a 1986 Nissan Stanza with 145,855 miles. Yesterday the weather became very cold and five of the warning lights turned on (Fuel, Brake, Washer Fluid, Head lights, and Tail lights) as I was driving home from work. Previously, all the warning lights turned on (not just these 5) and the problem was the alternator. Any idea what this combination of lights means, or is it also likely the alternator.

1 Reply

BACKYARDMECHANIC

MECHANIC
337 POSTS

It could be the alternator or a different problem so you will need to do a few check and test first to make sure.
First make sure the battery is good. Check with a volt meter and see if you have at least 12. Volts at the battery with car off and no other accessaries are on.
Second do a load test on the battery. If you don't have a battery load tester you can improvise. Disable the ignition system by removing the coil wire to prevent the car from starting. With the volt meter connected to the battery have an assistant crank the engine (No more then 10 seconds) and watch the volt meter. (If there is one in the car you can used that one instead) The voltage should not drop below 9 volts. If it does then recharge or replace battery before doing any more testing.
If all test above where good then start the car and test the alternator. With the car running the voltage should range between 13.5 to 15.5 volts but never below 13.5 with all the accessaries on. If voltage is not in range replace the alternator. If all goes well in the above check the fuse box for a defective fuse. Hope this helps Backyardmechanic :)