Alternator not charging?

Tiny
MICHAELKITE2
  • MEMBER
  • 2000 CHEVROLET CAVALIER
  • 2.2L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 117,000 MILES
I bought the car, the battery light was always on. It shut off before, I got a jump start, and I went on my way and the battery charged up. But now the alternator isn't charging the battery at all but it passed the test and it works, I also bought a new battery.
Wednesday, March 20th, 2019 AT 1:19 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,269 POSTS
Welcome to 2CarPros.

The first thing I need you to check is if the fusible link between the starter solenoid is good. If it is, there should be power to the alternator at all times. See picture 1. It is a portion of a wiring schematic for the charging system. A fusible link looks like a typical wire, but is designed to work like a fuse. You can test for power using a test light or volt meter. Here are a few link that you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-test-light-circuit-tester

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Also, I would like you to perform the following alternator test. This will tell me if any power is getting from the alternator to the battery.

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

____________________________________________

Now, the most common problem with charging systems is a corroded or loose connection, so make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight as well as the wires on the rear of the alternator and starter. Please remember, there is always power to both the alternator and starter, so make sure not to short anything.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Wednesday, March 20th, 2019 AT 7:25 PM

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