ALTERNATOR WARNING LIGHT
"What does that little red light that says ALT mean when it comes on?" Very basically, it means that either the alternator output voltage is lower than the battery voltage, or the battery voltage is lower than the alternator output voltage. If the light gets dimmer as you rev up the engine, then you most likely have a problem with the alternator. If it gets brighter, then the battery is most likely bad.
That's all well and good, but just exactly what does all that mean? To get a good idea, it is first necessary to understand how an alternator works. You don't need an engineering degree, just a basic understanding of the general principles. Figure 1, below, is a block diagram, or a "functional" diagram, of an alternator, and its connections to the remainder of the automobile electrical system. Following the figure is a description of the various components that make up an alternator, and a description of how each operates to keep the battery charged in your car.
ALTERNATOR WARNING LIGHT"What does that little red light that says ALT mean when it comes on?" Very basically, it means that either the alternator output voltage is lower than the battery voltage, or the battery voltage is lower than the alternator output voltage. If the light gets dimmer as you rev up the engine, then you most likely have a problem with the alternator. If it gets brighter, then the battery is most likely bad.That's all well and good, but just exactly what does all that mean? To get a good idea, it is first necessary to understand how an alternator works. You don't need an engineering degree, just a basic understanding of the general principles. Figure 1, below, is a block diagram, or a "functional" diagram, of an alternator, and its connections to the remainder of the automobile electrical system. Following the figure is a description of the various components that make up an alternator, and a description of how each operates to keep the battery charged in your car.
ALTERNATOR WARNING LIGHT"What does that little red light that says ALT mean when it comes on?" Very basically, it means that either the alternator output voltage is lower than the battery voltage, or the battery voltage is lower than the alternator output voltage. If the light gets dimmer as you rev up the engine, then you most likely have a problem with the alternator. If it gets brighter, then the battery is most likely bad.That's all well and good, but just exactly what does all that mean? To get a good idea, it is first necessary to understand how an alternator works. You don't need an engineering degree, just a basic understanding of the general principles. Figure 1, below, is a block diagram, or a "functional" diagram, of an alternator, and its connections to the remainder of the automobile electrical system. Following the figure is a description of the various components that make up an alternator, and a description of how each operates to keep the battery charged in your car.
yes if one of the wires was getting an earth from the alternator cover or rubbing off the engine the battery light is really an alternator light warning you that the alternator is not charging the battery
Your alternator is defective and not recharging the battery. Have the alternator checked.
The alternator switches off
There is a battery light above the engine temperature gauge
The charging warning light should automatically reset if the battery is disconnected. Check the battery cables and ensure they are properly connected. Also check the alternator connections. If the light is still on there may be a problem with the new alternator.
The alternator warning light monitors the charging system. When the light comes on it means the alternator has failed and you are running on the stored energy in the battery. You'll have anywhere from 5 to 30 miles to get to a repair shop depending on how many electrical devices are using the batteries power,ie.radio,lights,wipers,etc.
The alternator/generator is not charging.
Not all the time. The alternator warning circuit wiring to the instrument panel could be grounded
The alternator light is a warning that there is a problem with the charging system. In most instances it means the alternator has failed. Any auto parts store can check your system and most will do it for free.
It's alternator time.
The light means that there is an alternator issue
A warning light on the dash would illuminate.