my alarm features a remote start; when i start up the car using this, it seems that the only power is coming from the battery.. i get around 11 volts.. however, when i insert my key into the ignition and turn it to run, the voltage jumps back to 14-something.. wtf is up with that? its not the gauge, cause ive checked the battery with a multimeter and get the same readings.. any ideas?

 

either the remote start unit is defective or whoever installed the remote start unit did not properly connect all the required wires to the ignition switch harness.

 

what could cause the alternator to not be charging? is it somehow powered through the ignition wire?

 

the alternator needs a switched +12V lead supplied to for it to charge.

remote start unit is supposed to electrically emulate the ignition switch. appears as though the remote start unit is not providing power to one of the required ignition switch wires. but when the key is physically put into the ignition and turned to the run position, power is supplied to all the required wires and the alternator charges.

alternator not charging when remote started happens from time even when the units are "professionally installed".

another thing that is sometimes overlooked is whether the electric radiator fan engages when remote started. to check, idle the car for a while and once it heats up sufficently, the fan should kick in.

 

great, gives me something to work with! thanks