2003 Chevrolet Cavalier Charging System at Idle

DESTAERCKE

MEMBER
2003 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
2.2L
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
150,000 MILES

When the car is at idle (600rpms) with the a/c and other accessories on the alternator does not provide enough power to keep up, eventually the battery drains and the car stalls and will only stay running when I press the gas. There is no problem when driving, only at idle speeds. I have cleaned the battery terminals, installed a newer superior battery, installed a new serpentine belt and alternator, installed new idle air control valve, cleaned the throttle body, installed new throttle position sensor and manifold pressure sensor and checked the tensioner when installing the new belt and alternator. And also I have checked the air compressor clutch and found that it spins quite smoothly, I had the a/c recharge 3 years ago and still has a nearly full charge. I also installed new fuel and air filters and spark plugs. WHAT IS THE PROBLEMMMM?

1 Reply

WRENCHTECH

MECHANIC
20,757 POSTS

It's pretty normal to consume more current than you put back in when idling with accessories on but it would take idling for hours and hours to draw down a new battery unless of course you have one of those stereos that takes a power plant to run. You have to have something else going on there, possibly a parasitic draw when parked.