Possible alternator replacement

JOSHUABCONNOR

MEMBER
2008 HOLDEN CALAIS
V6
2WD
AUTOMATIC
175,000 MILES

When I first start my car in the morning the voltage for battery is only 11 volts also sluggish start from time to time.
Now recently when I drive the battery icon starts flashing on my car, but the car still charges not in the morning but in the afternoon.
Do I need to replace the alternator?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,867 POSTS

Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

It could be the alternator or even a loose belt. What I suggest is this With a volt meter, test the battery to determine voltage in the morning. It should be 12 volts. Then, have a helper start the vehicle. Once running, the voltage at the battery should jump up to around 14 volts. If it does, the alternator is working.

Here are a few links that will help. Do this and let me know what you find.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-use-a-voltmeter

Let me know the results. Also, make sure the battery terminals are both clean and tight.

Take care,
Joe