Got into airport after 5 days to find car battery dead. We jumped it , went to go in reverse and it died and needed a charge again. Rode on the interstate for one hour. Got home ; shut off engine; tried to start it up right away -- it was dead.
What could be the problem. Battery came with new car three years ago.
2006-06-13 06:07:25 · 10 answers · asked by traveller 3 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
It's the battery, and not the alternator.
Once the car is started the alternator will generate enough electricity for the car's engine. (and maybe a few minor accessories). A bad battery will typically hinder the alternator.
The battery is what supplies the car with it's short term electricity needs such as starting the car. Using accessories in the car when the engine is not running.
Typical battery life is from 3-5 years, depending on the quality of the battery. Batteries typically also need to be maintained. I'm not sure when the last time you've opened the battery and added distilled water to it. It's possible you ran you battery cells dry.
(unless you have the no-maintenance batteries)
If you're willing to do it yourself, take the battery out of the car and get it load tested at Autozone. They will do it for free to determine if the battery is the problem.
Where are the rest of you getting the alternator? He drove the car for an hour! This right after getting the battery jumped. If the alternator had truly gone out there would be no electricity for the hour drive home!
2006-06-13 06:14:13 · answer #1 · answered by hsueh001 5 · 3⤊ 0⤋
It is more than likely a bad battery and not an alternator. The battery is only used to start the car and act as a reserve for any power not being generated by the alternator. Before replacing either item though, there are simple tests that can be performed by almost any auto repair shop and even most auto parts stores.
2006-06-13 06:27:28 · answer #2 · answered by mrmerlin73 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I agree with those who say alternator. After this much time spent charging and recharging your battery, it might be time for a new battery too. Perhaps you could get a new battery, and if the problem persists, you'd know you probably need a new alternator. You won't be out extra money, cause you probably need to replace the battery anyway, because, if you're battery has been discharged fully so many times, it might not hold a charge as long as it should.
2006-06-13 06:23:37 · answer #3 · answered by Mama Pastafarian 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Check the alternator and also the voltage regulator. Make sure the battery terminals are clean. It also may just have a battery with a dead cell or two. These should solve your problem.
2006-06-13 06:25:30 · answer #4 · answered by Stormy 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Suggest you have battery and charging system checked by professional mechanic. Sound like battery went bad. Batteries usually last 2-4 years.
2006-06-13 06:23:36 · answer #5 · answered by enculet77 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Have your battery checked first before you replace the alternator. Sometimes older batteries won't hold a charge and need replacing.
2006-06-13 06:18:12 · answer #6 · answered by myste 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The alternator is probably bad if it cant keep battery power.
2006-06-13 06:11:46 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
If it's still under warranty, they have to replace it.
If it's not under warranty, then you need to replace it,yourself.
Sounds like you have a dud!
2006-06-13 06:16:58 · answer #8 · answered by loves watching deer 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeah your alternator is done.
2006-06-13 06:13:44 · answer #9 · answered by The Beast 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
have your alternator checked
2006-06-13 06:13:30 · answer #10 · answered by lovinbaseball10 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋