Intermittently displaying the battery light

VERONICA CLARK

MEMBER
2007 SATURN VUE HYBRID
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
121,000 MILES

Dashboard displays the battery light intermittently. All recalls have been taken care of, so the cause likely is not due to a recall campaign. The hybrid functionality is still working; the eco light comes up, and the hybrid charge meter functions. It seems like the dashboard lights are not as bright as usual. The car accelerates as usual and has not quit running on me. Why would the battery light be displaying intermittently?

1 Reply

KEN L

MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
48,363 POSTS

Hello,

It sounds like the alternator/starter is going out and needs to be replaced. but to be sure when the light is on check voltage at the 12 battery to see if its above 14.5 volts when running. If its down at 12 volts is no good. I would suggest an AC Delco Rebuild from RockAuto.

Here is a guide so you can test the alternator with diagrams below on how to change the unit out. You must disconnect the hybrid battery and the 12 volt battery as well which I have given instruction for as well.

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

I also have the alternator wiring diagrams so you can see how the system works. Check out the diagrams (below). Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.

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