Today was the first time I saw/noticed this happen. When I turn the key forward the voltmeter only measure about 8 volts, but the car starts up fine. Then the car is idling and it isn't just the meter because the lights are dim and the windows are slow to go down. I revved it up acouple times and the voltage jumped to about 12-13, this is where is it usually for me. I read a post that it should be like 13-15 but anyways it has happend acouple times today, but the other times it took acouple seconds and then jumped up to 12. Is this a wire, battery, alternator problem?? I'm hoping it isn't the alternator but I don't want to buy a new battery and have that die on me alittle ways down the road. The belts just got changed about a month ago, but I don't know how old the battery is, thanks for any help.

 

You mentioned belts. Are they tight? That could be all that is wrong with it. You say you are getting some action when you rev it so the alt has SOME output. First have the battery tested, most places do it for free. Next fully charge the battery and then check voltage across the battery terminals with it running. After it is started for the first couple of minutes it will probably range between 13.5-14.5. If it doesn't suspect an alternator going south. Autozone, Pep Boys and many places will also check the charging system for little or no fee if you don't have a voltmeter handy.

 

Stock guage may be wrong. At 8 volts, I'll bet the battery won't start your car. Get a voltmeter right on the battery and post the before start voltage and the running voltage--or like he said above, get it tested.

 

thanks, I'll check all that out. I didn't get a chance today because of the rain but hopefully it wil clear up soon. Thanks again

 

Every device after the ignition switch is fed from one constant +12V lead. It's possible that the resistance on the wire is a little too high which will cause a significant voltage drop across the wire. Measure the voltage directly at the alternator output stud to check for sure.