Electrical power loss

2004 VOLVO S60
148,000 MILES • 2.4L • AUTOMATIC
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ROSA_SERA
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  • 2 POSTS
Could not unlock my car with remote nor with key, left windows cracked so able to unlock. Started car no gauges on dash, windows won't come down or up, signal lights don't work, got my car home.
Radio, headlights, brake lights work.
Drove to a mechanic, he says needs alternator. could this be true?

Side note: during winter this last year my signal lights or buttons on steering wheel wouldn't work, until the car is warmed up.
Jun 19, 2021 at 11:41 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi,

Today's cars are somewhat sensitive to voltage drops. Does the alternator need to be replaced, it could, but that doesn't sound like the issue. However, let's try a little test. Follow the procedure in the following link to see the voltage being produced by the alternator. Let me know the results and I will be able to further help you diagnose what is happening.

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

All you need is a voltmeter or a multimeter to perform the test. It's really not too hard.

Let me know the results or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

Jun 20, 2021 at 9:21 PM
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ROSA_SERA
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Very helpful, alternator solved it. Now just have to clear SRS-bag code. thank you so much.
Jun 22, 2021 at 5:22 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi,

You are very welcome. I'm glad it was helpful. Please feel free to come back anytime in the future if you have questions.

Take good care of yourself,

Joe
Jun 22, 2021 at 7:45 PM