lights go dim
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
From: Citrus Heights California
lights go dim
Tonight coming home from work I noticed that every time I came to a stop light, stop sign, or any time I touched the brake my headlights would go dim, I've noticed a flicker in the past but told myself my eyes were playing tricks on me however tonight was no trick, I checked my battery cables and they are spotless, I would watch the gauge while tapping the brake and did'nt notice any real movement but in the driveway my garage door confirmed that yes they were going dim on me. Anybody else have this problem and if so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
joe freeman (free c-5) car is a 2002 c-5
joe freeman (free c-5) car is a 2002 c-5
Tech Contributor
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 19,384
Likes: 87
From: Horncastle Lincolnshire, England
2023 C5 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
Your profile doesn't have any info so I don't know what year your Vette is.
If you still have the original AC Delco they are prone to failure. Very common.
The older batetries leak and the computer is underneath the battery tray. Acid and wiring is a bad combination
Take the battery out and make sure its not leaking. If you have any doubts get a replacement in any case. Worth $100 for the peace of mind IMHO.
If you still have the original AC Delco they are prone to failure. Very common.
The older batetries leak and the computer is underneath the battery tray. Acid and wiring is a bad combination
Take the battery out and make sure its not leaking. If you have any doubts get a replacement in any case. Worth $100 for the peace of mind IMHO.
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 58,551
Likes: 95
From: The warm part of Anger Island
St. Jude Donor '09
I have the same problem and it's driving me crazy. I can say it's not the battery becasue it's only two months old and works fine. The generator/alternator (yes, I know whcih one it really is... give me a break) is putting out 14.3 volts at speed and 13.8 in idle. I have no mods to the stereo and don't run with my underside LEDs on while driving. Any other suggestions out there?
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Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 6,937
Likes: 21
From: Waldorf MD
Check your battery terminals. You should not be able to twist or move them by hand. If you tighten them only do it to 11 ft lbs, overtightening can cause battery to leak acid on your computer.
Race Director
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 11,138
Likes: 11
From: Fremont CA
St. Jude Donor '06-'07-'08-'09-'10-'11-'12-'13-'14-'15-'16-'17-'18-'19-'20
NCM Sinkhole Donor
Remove, clean, and retighten the battery terminals. If that doesn't work, get the battery tested at and Kragen, Pepboys, Sears, etc. If the battery is good, you need a new alternator. 
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
From: Citrus Heights California
battery cable seemed to be the problem, I had no corrosion but I wire brushed them and hooked em back up and presto,....no more dim lights, now how do I get my stereo to work again. thanks for the input,
joe freeman (free-c5)
joe freeman (free-c5)
