hey guys, my car is having an issue where the battery needle fluctuates around the 10 mark, the car's not leaving me stranded but will have the occasional slow crank (but will still fire up.). It's not charging and staying up to 13, I'm counting myself lucky my car is running around and powering accessories without getting stranded, but I'm fearing it's a matter of time. Is there something else I need to check or is my alternator just not keeping up? I've already tested the wires at the connection on the alt, has 12v from battery and 12v with key ON.

thanks guys

 

Ok , so if you've checked the alternator terminal and found 12 volts there , you've obviously done that with the engine not running , yes ? If yes , now you need to take the measurement again (presuming you are using a known good digital voltmeter , right ?) only this time with the engine running and see what you get . Now , with the engine running and the voltmeter connected start turning on things like wipers , headlights , heat/ac blower , and so on , and check to see if right above idle you can get at least 13.5 to 14 ish volts , if so all is well . If not , further checks may be needed .

PS , the dash gauges are in no way any kinds of accurate instruments that will give precision readings like a digital voltmeter will , and are not to be trusted for any kinds of serious troubleshooting ....

 

I meant to say the 3-wire connector that plugs in near the top of the alt, I'll do more troubleshooting tomorrow

You're right about the gauges, I am using a multimeter for troubleshooting, I just want peace of mind while driving