Car shuts off after jump start?

Hello, it does sound like an issue with the alternator. Do you have a multimeter by chance? If not, they are relatively expensive at a store like Harbor Freight or Northern Tool. While the car is running and the multimeter connected to the battery, the voltage should read something like 13.5 - 14.8 volts. If you had the alternator replaced and it was remanufactured, it is likely they did not replace a part, or rather a part was declared "good" at the time of rebuilding. I think this year in particular I've replaced more warranty alternators, starters, and batteries compared to any other year. For this reason, we should not assume anything just yet.

William

Thank you for writing back. Yes, I do have a multimeter, and I did check the battery voltage couple of days back, but I wasn’t getting a consistent reading. I’m new to multimeter and will recheck again in the morning. I’m not sure what I can do about the alternator as I have already paid $450 to repair shop when my car broke down and I got it towed to the nearby repair shop.
Thanks again

Hi,

In some cases, you may be able to take a repair order to the previous shop for proof that the job did not hold. They could then refund you. I hope it doesn't turn into a hassle for you. Please let us know how it turns out.

William

Thank you.
I did some readings with the multimeter:
Before I jumpstart the car, the multimeter read battery 8.1v and then I jumpstart the car took off the jumper cables. The multimeter read of battery 13.1 while the car engine still running I I turn on the headlights radio fan the voltage dropped 10.8. The car still idling for about 5 mins then dashboard lights died off and the engine stopped the multimeter battery reading 6.6 v
I found the receipt for alternator replacement from the shop and will contact them to see if they can do something about it. They gave me the old defective alternator (still have it in garage) when they replaced it the current one. How can you tell if the new alternator possibly defective is remanufactured one? I appreciate your expertise and taking time to answer my questions, many thanks.

Theres not much to do to tell if it was remanufactured outside of searching the part number on the sticker. There are separate numbers for reman vs new. If the battery is 13.1 while running that started to sound normal, but adding load like the lights, AC, etc., can bring out the problem with the alternator. I hope you can get this resolved.

Thanks,
William

I took the car back to the repair shop and he is telling me that the alternator is not working and needs to be replaced and paid $350. I told him what happened to the one that you guys put it. He is denying that he replaced it and saying I bought it and put it yourself I can’t believe it I still have my old original one that he gave me and the receipt. What can I do?

At this point the only advice I can give you is if there is a sales receipt for the work done, that is your proof, however if I were you I would take the car to a reputable shop that honors their work with a warranty.

William