2001 Toyota Camry Electrical problem

MICHAEL POTTER

MEMBER
2001 TOYOTA CAMRY
3.0L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
100,000 MILES

When you are driving and put your foot on the brake or turn on either indicator the headlights and or the dash lights will dim considerably. The radio will also stop briefly and the cruise control often disengages. The battery still charges OK. I have checked all electrical connections including earths that I can find.

Sunday, January 26th, 2014 AT 2:22 AM

5 Replies

MLDANIELS2000

MECHANIC
227 POSTS

Would suggest taking to a parts store for a free charging system analyzing. You may have a bad diode in you alternator which will cause voltage drop on the battery because it isn't charging for excess demand on battery. Each alternator has 3 diodes that force alternating current (a/c) into direct current (d/c) for battery charging and car electrical system needs. When one diode goes bad it may not put on a charging indicator light because it is charging, just not efficiently.

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Sunday, January 26th, 2014 AT 1:36 PM

MICHAEL POTTER

MEMBER
3 POSTS

So it is possible for the battery to charge OK but when the car is running and is loaded when lights are being used, that the alternator is not coping because of a diode problem. Does it then need a replacement alternator?

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Sunday, January 26th, 2014 AT 8:13 PM

MLDANIELS2000

MECHANIC
227 POSTS

Yes, replace alternator.

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Sunday, January 26th, 2014 AT 8:20 PM

MICHAEL POTTER

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Thank you for the help you have provided. Just one last question. The camry has a Bosch alternator in it at present. Can I replace it with a Denso? It is the correct Denso for the camry, however I am not sure if the mountings will be the same. I am buying the replacement online as I live in a remote area.
Thanks again

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Monday, January 27th, 2014 AT 12:59 AM

MLDANIELS2000