Electrical power loss

ROSA_SERA

MEMBER
2004 VOLVO S60
2.4L
AUTOMATIC
148,000 MILES

Could not unlock my car with remote nor with key, left windows cracked so able to unlock. Started car no gauges on dash, windows won't come down or up, signal lights don't work, got my car home.
Radio, headlights, brake lights work.
Drove to a mechanic, he says needs alternator. Could this be true?

Side note: during winter this last year my signal lights or buttons on steering wheel wouldn't work, until the car is warmed up.

3 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,164 POSTS

Hi,

Today's cars are somewhat sensitive to voltage drops. Does the alternator need to be replaced, it could, but that doesn't sound like the issue. However, let's try a little test. Follow the procedure in the following link to see the voltage being produced by the alternator. Let me know the results and I will be able to further help you diagnose what is happening.

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

All you need is a voltmeter or a multimeter to perform the test. It's really not too hard.

Let me know the results or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

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Sunday, June 20th, 2021 AT 9:21 PM

ROSA_SERA

MEMBER
2 POSTS

Very helpful, alternator solved it. Now just have to clear SRS-bag code. Thank you so much.

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Tuesday, June 22nd, 2021 AT 5:22 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,164 POSTS

Hi,

You are very welcome. I'm glad it was helpful. Please feel free to come back anytime in the future if you have questions.

Take good care of yourself,

Joe

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Tuesday, June 22nd, 2021 AT 7:45 PM