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Most or all automotive alternators output 12+/- Volts DC. The actual output varies slightly depending on the age of the alternator. A new one typically outputs around 14Volts which decreases with age. Once the alternator starts ouputting less than 12Volts, you should consider rebuilding or replacing it, since it won't be able to keep up to the vehicle's electrical demands.

Alternators should be between 13-15 volts. If it only outputs 12 volts, then it is bad....an alternator cannot maintain charge on the battery (12.5 volts ideally) and provide amperage to all of the accessories on the car with only 12 volts output. More importantly, the amperage and diode pattern on your alternator determines good or bad. You cannot properly test an alternator with a multimeter.

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14y ago

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