Radio shuts off when in drive, alternator voltage is low?

Tiny
DCLAET
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 HONDA ACCORD
  • 6 CYL
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 136 MILES
You solved our previous problem with the code and noise. Thank you. Our original problem still exists: The radio, which works fine in park with engine on, but once I start driving straight, it shuts off and comes back on when put in park. My son just installed a new alternator, battery and new pos and neg battery cables. However, the new alternator reads at 12.6 volts. My son had AutoZone test the alternator when he bought it and they said it tested just fine. He even tried another new alternator. He says that something is keeping the alternator from reaching 13.5 or higher volts when it's in the car. I don't know if it matters, but the radio controls on the steering wheel no longer work. I can live without a radio just fine, but I don't want to be stranded. Can you please help?
Saturday, November 12th, 2022 AT 5:37 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,128 POSTS
Hi,

With the engine off, what voltage is the battery producing? I'm trying to determine possibilities.

Here is a link that explains how to test an alternator on the vehicle. Try this and let me know the results. If you are only getting 12.6v, it sounds like the alternator (good or bad) isn't doing much of anything.

Also, let me know if the battery ever fails and if this is a hybrid.

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

Let me know.

Take care,

Joe

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Saturday, November 12th, 2022 AT 10:48 PM
Tiny
DCLAET
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
I have forwarded this to my son, Eric, and will have him respond as I don't know this information (old lady here). You have already corresponded with him about my Honda code and squealing noise. Thanks so much for your help. Denise
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Sunday, November 13th, 2022 AT 4:00 AM
Tiny
DCLAET
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
It is not a hybrid. My son said that he will get back to you later today, as he is at work. I have to wonder if the radio problem isn't somehow related, as these problems all started at the same time.
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Sunday, November 13th, 2022 AT 1:18 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,128 POSTS
Hi,

Anything is possible, but newer vehicles are very sensitive to voltage-related issues. Placing it in gear can be enough to lower the voltage to other components.

I'll watch for his reply.

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, November 13th, 2022 AT 4:47 PM
Tiny
DCLAET
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Thanks. He had a side job today and work tonight. He said that he will try for tomorrow, or for sure Tuesday, which is his day off. Thanks so much for your help.
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Sunday, November 13th, 2022 AT 7:36 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,128 POSTS
Hi,

Thanks for the update, and no problem whatsoever. Let me know when he gets to it and the results. I'm interested in knowing what he finds.

Take care,

Joe
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Monday, November 14th, 2022 AT 6:30 PM

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