Bad alternator ruined the battery

Tiny
ANTHONY71
  • MEMBER
  • 2004 PONTIAC GRAND AM
  • 6 CYL
  • 106,000 MILES
Apparently my alternator went bad and ruined the battery. I put a new battery in so I can roll up my windows. Don't have enough for a new alternator yet. So I tried to crank the motor and it just clicked and nothing. It won't even power the windows? Help?
Wednesday, July 10th, 2019 AT 1:39 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Welcome to 2CarPros.

If the starter only clicks, that usually indicates a weak battery. Since you just replaced it, it could need charged or it could be bad.

Try this simple load test and let me know the results. Also, if you have a charger, try charging it. Make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight also.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-charge-your-car-battery

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked

Make sure you go through link 3. It discusses a similar symptom to what you are experiencing.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,
Joe
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Wednesday, July 10th, 2019 AT 10:38 PM
Tiny
ANTHONY71
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Battery is brand new. When I turn the key to the on position, nothing comes on except the check engine light. Won't crank or even click. All hooked up properly.
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Thursday, July 11th, 2019 AT 4:30 AM
Tiny
ANTHONY71
  • MEMBER
  • 9 POSTS
Would the bad alternator prevent the new battery to start the car or operate the electric windows? I'm bummed if there's an other electrical problem I'm not aware of.I don't have any testing equipment. If it's possible I purchased a dead battery from Wal-Mart, I have to take the battery to be tested on my bicycle. So if you could tell me your opinion on this matter, it's greatly appreciated.
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Thursday, July 11th, 2019 AT 8:41 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Welcome back:

Honestly, the alternator won't prevent the engine from starting if the battery is good. Did you check all of the main fuses under the hood?

When you turn the key to start the engine, does the check engine light dim? Does anything other work, such as the dome light, radio, headlights?

It's possible that the battery lost charge sitting on the shelf. It's unlikely but possible. You are certain that the battery terminals are clean and tight?

Let me know. Is there anyone that could try to jump start the vehicle with you?

Take care,
Joe
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Thursday, July 11th, 2019 AT 7:44 PM

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