I have a 2001 Chevy Prizm. Yesterday, I stopped at the drug store for a short visit. When I got back to the car, I tried to start it and all I heard were "clicks" AAA came out to jump start the car. I replaced the battery this morning (I think I was due for a new battery anyway). The car has about 73,500 miles on it. I travel about 20 miles (round trip) to get to work each day.
The car is running fine (for now). Should I be concerned about the altenator? Will I need to get another battery if the altenator is bad?
2006-10-22 07:57:40 · 7 answers · asked by Lizzie 5 in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
The battery always need proper alternator support.,When the battery "ages" its capability deminishes!To be safe of any future "short or long visits" have the cars "charging-system" checked at a local friendly parts -store or auto shop. Many offer free testing! Good luck!
2006-10-22 08:12:25 · answer #1 · answered by Hank 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Best way for a do-it-yourselfer is to start the car... disconnect the battery while the car is running, if it stalls you need a alternator, the alternator should keep the engine running if its working properly, or you can put a multi-meter on the battery posts to check the charging rate, G.M. should be around 14.0 to 14.7 volts running.
2006-10-22 08:07:21 · answer #2 · answered by LEO H 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No you shouldnt need a battery if the alternator is bad. Do you get an idiot lite on? Best bet is to have the electrical system checked now before you do break down again. The system checks are usually free, go to any AutoZone parts store. I am sure they will look at it and test it for you for free.
good luck.......
2006-10-22 08:05:40 · answer #3 · answered by mailbox1024 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If anything it was the dead battery, but that click you herd was the starter. The starter helps the engine crank over to start. The weak battery must have not had enough power to spin the starter to start the car. But try to get the starter tested, you can go to autozone and get it tested for free or go to pepboys they charge 19.99 but they test you battery and alternator also.
2006-10-22 08:02:26 · answer #4 · answered by hyphyboi408 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Start your car . when it is started then it is working .
Now disconnect the battery electrode wires . If your car continue to working your alternator is safe but if it is not to continue working your alternator is maybe damaged & must be repaird or you must get the new alternator .
If your car battery is decharged or it's power would be low this a wiring problem . need to see an automechanic .
2006-10-22 08:15:44 · answer #5 · answered by jetboy861 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It was just your battery, AAA runs a thorough check on your electrical system before reccommending a new battery. Don't worry, you are fine now.
2006-10-22 08:02:40 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
if the battery light isn't on the alternator is chargingtake it to advance auto they do free battery and charging checks
2006-10-22 11:09:50 · answer #7 · answered by JT 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋