Why Is My Alternator Overcharging?
Most people understand what happens when the generator dies. Usually there is not enough tension to load the battery further. What caused the problem when the alternator was overloaded? Will an alternator create too much tension and lead to problems? Surprisingly, alternators can pump out too much tension, but usually only if something goes wrong.
Not only does it show symptoms of an overloaded light machine, it also explains why this occurs. As an expert, you can also show how to test and fix it to get back on the street. At the end of this guideline, we took some of the questions we most often ask.
Generator symptoms
When the alternator overloads, the headlight or dashboard light will flash. It can also cause lighter lights than regular dashboard warts, shorter lamp life, inflated batteries, strange smells from batteries, and many other electrical issues.
Let’s take a closer look at these options to see if you need to fight overloaded generators.
1. Flicker dashboard light or headlight
When the alternator dies, you will notice that the dashboard lights and headlights will flash due to lack of loading. However, the same applies when the alternator is too loaded. The light brightens, normalizes again, creating a flickering sensation. This problem is caused by an excessive amount of voltage coming through the system.
Based solely on this symptom, I don’t know if the alternator is generating too much generation from the load or too easily. You should look at this issue in relation to other symptoms.
2. Lighter than normal light
The alternator promotes more tension than it should, so this power source must go somewhere. Therefore, the lights on the vehicle will be much brighter than you’re used to. This issue can occur with headlights, Waumblights, Dashboard Lights, and almost all lights. If this continues, symptoms number 4 will surely appear.
On the other hand, if the alternator does not generate enough power, you will notice the dimmer lights overall. Either way, alternators are responsible, but for a variety of reasons.
3. Dashboard warning light
If your car’s alternator is overloaded, you’re likely to see a battery light on your dashboard. You can also notice the check engine light in many cases.
Today, modern vehicles are equipped with an OBD II system that tells you when something is wrong. The car computer determines which code can be read with a compatible scanner. If the alternator knocks down the battery, you’ll probably see the charging system code. In most cases, the P2504 charging system voltage will be used.
However, you cannot simply replace the alternator and expect this to be a problem. This code can also mean a problem with voltage controllers, battery corrosion, or just electric short films. For this reason, it is always a good idea to investigate DTC with a free TROB code library. Provides steps to help troubleshoot the most common diagnostic codes.
4. Couple container life expectancy
It records how much wear is on the onion, which can cause wear earlier than usual. For headlights, the average bulbs have different lifespans based on which type.
Halogen: 450-1,000 hours
Hidden: 6,000-24,000 hours
LED: 30,000-50,000 hours
If you want to change the bulb more frequently, you want to get to the bottom of what’s going on. There’s no reason to spend extra money on unnecessary parts.
5. Filled battery is filled
The car battery has special electrolyte solutions needed for chemical reactions. If this solution gets too hot due to charging, it can cause a battery defect. If the case is found to swell to the side, this is a frequent symptom of overload. Do not use the battery if the housing is deformed.
6. Strong smell (from an overloaded battery)
If the same electrolyte solution is overloaded, an abnormal smell can be created. As soon as the solution begins to cook, it may smell like sulfur or lazy eggs. The smell is the result of the hydrogen sulfide gas produced. The smell indicates that the battery is leaking and is no longer safe.
7. Other electrical issues
If an alternator doesn’t work as you would need it, a strange electric event will take place in the car. You can see that the stereo system works differently or that the heated seats look unusually warm. It is also common for dashboard measuring devices to jump. These anomalies occur because the measuring device does not know how to deal with excessive amounts of tension.
This is how to test if the alternator is overloaded
Testing a light machine in your car is surprisingly easy, especially if you have a multimeter. However, if you are not involved in the diagnosis, most automated parts offer free general testing.
The battery in a car runs at about 12.6 volts, while the alternator usually produces about 14.2 volts. These numbers allow you to quickly check if there is a problem.
Here are some steps to follow.
1) Set your multimeter to read 20 volts DC.
2) Touch the red probe of the multimeter to the positive clamp on the battery.
3) Touch the black probe of the multimeter to the negative clamp.
4) With the engine turned off, your battery should read above 12 volts. Usually, the reading is around 12.6 volts.
5) Start the car engine.
6) Check the reading again. If the alternator is working as it should, the reading shows between 13.5 to 14.5 volts.
7) Turn on all of the electronics, including your high beams, stereo and hazard lights.
8) The reading should still be above the standard battery voltage, typically about 14 volts.
Here’s what to do if you get any abnormal readings.
>> Voltage below 12 on the battery: Indicates that the battery is dying. Charge the battery by driving for a minimum of thirty minutes or connect it to a charger. If the battery voltage remains low after charging it, you need to replace it.
>> Voltage drops below 13.5 with or without a load: The alternator isn’t supplying enough power.
>> Voltage goes beyond 14.7: The alternator is overcharging the battery.
Ideally, the voltage remains at 13.5 to 14.5 with the engine running. This is the perfect amount of power to recharge the battery while providing support for other electronic equipment in the car.
Reasons Why An Alternator Is Overcharging
In nearly every case, the voltage regulator is to blame. This essential part is responsible for controlling how much voltage output comes from the alternator. It limits excessive voltage from occurring unless it fails.
The majority of voltage regulators are within the alternator itself. It’s put there by the manufacturer. Therefore, it’s not as simple as fixing the voltage regulator. Instead, you need to replace the alternator, which we are preparing to discuss next.
How To Fix An Overcharging Alternator
Because the voltage regulator is found within the alternator, your best bet is to replace the alternator. Some people like to tinker with the alternator and replace the voltage regulator, but this isn’t something the everyday person chooses to do. It’s not even going to save you a lot of money, but it will eat up a good portion of your time.
If you want to change the alternator yourself, here are some steps to follow.
1) Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2) Loosen the belt tensioner.
3) Remove the serpentine belt.
4) Disconnect any wires.
5) Remove the alternator.
6) Install your new alternator, ensuring it aligns and fits with the existing bolt holes.
7) Put the belt on.
8) Check the tension on the belt.
9) Connect the negative battery cable
If you want to retest the system with your multimeter, you can double-check that everything is working as it should.
If you don’t feel equipped to replace the alternator yourself, you can take your vehicle to a local repair shop. The average cost for alternator replacement is between $350 and $900, depending on the type of car you drive and local labor rates.
Keep in mind that you may lose the presets in your car. You’ll probably need to reset the clock, stereo and other settings after the replacement is complete.
Are 15 volts too high for an alternator?
In most cases, 15 volts is too high, but you need to check your service manual to be sure. Some manufacturers, especially European, install equipment that uses a lot of power. Daytime running lights draw more power, so the voltage regulator may be set higher to compensate for these features.
How do I fix my car from overcharging?
If there’s a problem with the voltage regulator, you want to replace the alternator. Voltage regulators are typically found in the alternator, and there’s no sense fixing it. If you aren’t sure how to replace the alternator, take your car to a shop. Alternator replacement typically costs $350 to $900 for parts and labor.
Is it bad to drive with an overcharging alternator?
We never recommend driving your car while it’s overcharging. The electrolytes in the battery can boil over and cause damage. You can also allow harm to the sensitive electronics and the bulbs could fail from the excessive voltage. Instead, you should replace the alternator before it leads to any significant trouble.
What should an alternator charge at idle?
Even with the engine idling, the alternator should still create a minimum of 13.5 volts. If it drops lower than that, the alternator may be failing. Any higher and there could be an overcharging situation. Either way, you would need to replace the alternator before you run into bigger problems.
Can a bad ground cause an alternator not to charge?
A bad ground isn’t usually going to lead to more voltage. Even if it was creating an excessive amount of voltage, the regulator should keep it in check. Normally, the bad ground will cause problems getting enough voltage, leading to a dead car battery.
Alternator issues are never fun to deal with, especially if you aren’t experienced with the car’s charging system. Yet, if you have a multimeter, most of the issues can be diagnosed fairly quickly. You don’t need to be a certified mechanic to diagnose what’s wrong.
Still, you want to use caution. Remember that whenever you work with the battery and alternator, you are dealing with power systems. It’s advisable to take extra precautions and avoid touching any battery acid with your bare skin. It’s highly corrosive and could cause trouble. If you feel uncomfortable at any time, ask a local mechanic for more help.
