Why Does My Alternator Gauge Fluctuate?
Before Condemning the Alternator Though, One Other Thing That Can Cause the Battery Gauge to Go up and Down Is If the Wires Aren't Connected Well or Are...
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In this way, is it normal for battery voltage to fluctuate?
13.7 V is OK when engine running and alternator putting out charge. You say the battery is good and charged, if you measure voltage at the battery(cold) it should be 12.4-12.6+ to be good(maybe have load tested). A battery that is on it's way out(faulty cell) or bad connection could cause the fluctuations you see.
Also, how do know if your alternator is bad? Six Alternator Warning Signs:
- Dim lights. The alternator is part of the electrical system of your vehicle.
- Warning light. Most modern cars have a dashboard warning light that alerts you when the alternator is on the fritz.
- Weak or dead battery.
- Weird smells.
- Odd sounds.
- Visual cues.
Similarly, it is asked, what should my alternator gauge read?
The voltage should read a minimum of 13 volts. A good alternator should put out between **13.5-14.5 volts. Stress test the alternator - Place a load on the alternator by turning on the headlights, the radio and the air conditioning. The voltage should remain high with these circuits on.
Can a car run with a bad alternator?
The short answer is yes a car can be driven short distances with a faulty alternator. If an alternator is giving a low charge it will but a load on the engine trying to ineffectually charge a battery and the battery will slowly die as the alternator gets weaker and weaker and cannot sufficiently recharge the batter.
