u might need a new starter
If the battery checks out okay, you can replace just the voltage regulator inside the alternator.
Battery light usually means alternator not charging. Most common solutions would be be a bad alternator, bad connection, or loose alt belt.
I had this problem on a 1979 Mercury Grand Marquis- it turned out to be a short in the wire going from the alternator to the battery. It was intermittent, so it was very hard to run down. If the alternator checks good, the short/broken wire could easily be the culprit.Rocky_B - See my entry here for more things you might want to check: http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_could_be_wrong_if_the_battery_light_stays_on_and_the_battery_still_runs_down_on_a_1996_windstar_after_installing_a_new_battery_and_alternator
If you *know* the alternator is good, like you just replaced it, or removed it and had it tested down at the autoparts store, then it could be any number of problems. Check all cables and connections between the battery and alternator. This includes cleaning the connection terminals on the battery (they make a special wire brush for this purpose). If that is all done and the problem still exists, then it is probably a bad battery. Check the fluid levels in the battery, if they are fine then take it down to the autoparts store and have it tested as well.
The alternator in a 1989 Volvo 240 is a critical component responsible for charging the battery and powering the electrical systems while the engine is running. Typically, this model uses a 70-amp alternator, which can be replaced if it fails. Common signs of a failing alternator include dimming lights, electrical issues, or a warning light on the dashboard. Regular maintenance and checks can help ensure its longevity and performance.
If your 1994 Ford Probe's alternator checks out good but the battery isn't charging, consider inspecting the battery connections for corrosion or looseness, as poor connections can prevent proper charging. Additionally, check the wiring and fuses related to the charging system for any damage or breaks. Lastly, a faulty battery can also be the culprit, so testing the battery's health is essential.
The battery light isn't an indicator that the battery is always bad. What the light should really be is a picture of an alternator, but most people wouldn't recognize that. Have the alternator checked off the vehicle to make sure it is good, then have it checked on the vehicle, (many places like Auto Zone do this for free). If it's not charging on the vehicle, you could have an alternator fuse bad or your car might even have an inline fuse between the alternator and battery. Many Ford products have a large fusible link between the alternator and battery, and if it's bad, there is no power going to the battery from the alternator. Good Luck!!!!
Because the ac uses juice from the battery, if it uses all the energy, the car wont start Just as in winter, when you have the heating on, the AC uses the heating fan to circulate the cold air. It is the fan that takes the current from the battery and if the battery is not holding it's charge or the alternator is not charging the battery then the battery will die and the car cut out. It this situation it is best if 2 checks made, if necessary, by an Auto-Electrician. They are:- 1) The battery to see if it is holding it's charge and 2) The alternator to see if it is charging. Replace the faulty components. If the car cut's out when the battery dies this suggests the alternator may well be at fault. However the checks will confirm this one way or the other. A red light may show on the dash if the alternator is not charging.
For a battery to "Drain" you MUST have a short somewhere or the "Glovebox" or "Trunk" light is staying on etc. etc. Battery's don't just "Drain" on there own ;-) TommyTrouble
When inspecting an alternator for charging faults, two essential external checks include verifying the battery voltage and examining the connections. First, measure the battery voltage to ensure it's within the normal range (typically 12.6 to 12.8 volts for a fully charged battery). Second, inspect the wiring and connectors for signs of corrosion, loose connections, or damage, as these issues can hinder proper charging.
It checks many things, connections, belt, and voltage regulator. I have never checked one with a load test. On a modern car or truck, never ever disconnect the battery from the alternator with the motor running to check the alternator. It can burnup a lot of electronics instantly.
Make sure the battery is checked out under a load. This will indicate whether the battery is capable of holding a charge.Second, suspect the alternator is not charging the battery.Third, suspect a short or a switch somewhere that is draining the battery.