SLVRVERT

So my voltmeter has been misreading. I replaced my alternator, battery, tensioner and belt. So today I decided to test after replacing everything because it was still reading 12.5 to 12 volts sometimes it will go to 13. I tested the battery it was reading 12.4 a 2 month old Optima red top. So I took my volt meter while the car was off tested at 12.4. Tested it with the car running it was 13.6 without a load and the radio on. Then when the fans kicked on, with my hand held voltmeter it was reading 13.4 but I checked the gauge inside and it was around 12 any ideas?

pewter99

lots of variables I see this all the time in my C6Z06...watch your DIC voltage reading as opposed to the analog gauge....it will be up and down all over the place

SLVRVERT

That is a very good question. To be honest I do not know how to check it on the DIC. Instructions please.

SLVRVERT

Nevermind I figured it out. The DIC says between 12.4 to 12.7 and under load below 12. Why is there such a big difference between my hand held voltmeter and the car?

BigGun

The readings on dic and the instrument panel gauge come from the ignition switch. The contacts in the switch get corroded and burnt creating resistance hence the lower readings. A new switch might fix this well documented problem but most people don't worry about it unless it gets really low or high.

SLVRVERT

Thanks for the info. I will check it out!