Battery draining while driving and the car shuts off

Tiny
BERSHUNNA WILLIAMS
  • MEMBER
  • 2011 KIA CERATO
  • 200,000,000 MILES
The dash light goes off and the car shuts off. What causes it to do that?
Sunday, July 3rd, 2022 AT 7:09 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
SQM
  • MECHANIC
  • 6,383 POSTS
Hello,

This could be due to a faulty alternator.
If the alternator is not providing proper output to the battery, it will cause the warning light (usually the low charger or battery light) to go off. This will discharge the battery and as soon the battery is depleted the engine will shut off, usually when slowing down or coming to a stop.
Typically, a good alternator will put out 13.6V -15.2V to the battery with the engine running.

Here is a helpful guide on how to test the alternator:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator
https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-an-alternator

I have attached diagrams below for your reference.

Let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
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Sunday, July 3rd, 2022 AT 10:55 PM

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