Inside lights dimming

2000 BUICK PARK AVENUE
78,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • MANUAL
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MCKATRISH
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2000 Buick Park Avenue - dash lights dim and brighten while driving, at times almost flicker on and off (as does the radio).

Replaced the battery in August and problem went away. Came back in the last week.

Had battery checked and it was fine. Had alternator checked and it is out putting 14 volts with everything running.

Fuses all look ok. What next?
Nov 19, 2010 at 2:06 PM
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KHLOW2008
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 41,814 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Check for loose or contaminated ground circuit connections and wiring connectors. Look out for signs of heating ( melted or discolored) at connectors.
Nov 19, 2010 at 2:53 PM
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KHLOW2008
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 41,814 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
When braking causes the lights to dim, it could be an alternator charging problem. Though you mentioned a 14 volt charging, did you test the charging rate with full accessories on?
Nov 20, 2010 at 12:52 PM
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KHLOW2008
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 41,814 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
The load test indicates the alternator is working correctly.
Remove and clean all grounding circuits at fron of vehicle before reinstalling and retest.

Clean bay==ttery terminals as well.
Nov 21, 2010 at 7:11 AM
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