Low voltage?
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Joined: Feb 2010
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Low voltage?
My gauge reads 12.7-13.5V when the car is running... I confirmed it with a multi-meter.... I figured that was pretty low and the battery looked old, so I replaced it with an Optima Yellow Top and same thing, still shows low voltage.
Is it the alternator maybe? I'm not used to having a car that doesn't put out at least 14V when running? Shouldn't it normally be 14.3-14.5V???
Are there high output alternators out there?
Is it the alternator maybe? I'm not used to having a car that doesn't put out at least 14V when running? Shouldn't it normally be 14.3-14.5V???
Are there high output alternators out there?
Tech Contributor
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 19,388
Likes: 1,134
From: Dyer, IN
My gauge reads 12.7-13.5V when the car is running... I confirmed it with a multi-meter.... I figured that was pretty low and the battery looked old, so I replaced it with an Optima Yellow Top and same thing, still shows low voltage.
Is it the alternator maybe? I'm not used to having a car that doesn't put out at least 14V when running? Shouldn't it normally be 14.3-14.5V???
Are there high output alternators out there?
Is it the alternator maybe? I'm not used to having a car that doesn't put out at least 14V when running? Shouldn't it normally be 14.3-14.5V???
Are there high output alternators out there?
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 3,842
Likes: 230
From: SANTA CRUZ CA
Good advice ..... with an emphasis on checking all connections. also, check for corrosion at all contact points. As you suggest, your batt reading should be 14.1 - 14.5 engine on.
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 6,774
Likes: 363
From: Midland TX
Mine read the same for at least the past two years.
I installed a new Red Top battery, new ignition switch, new starter and solenoid, and new Valeo alternator - checked all grounds and connections at starter - still never gets above 13.6 on DIC or gauge and constantly dips into the mid 12's at idle. I finally gave up looking.
I installed a new Red Top battery, new ignition switch, new starter and solenoid, and new Valeo alternator - checked all grounds and connections at starter - still never gets above 13.6 on DIC or gauge and constantly dips into the mid 12's at idle. I finally gave up looking.
