My alternator light has begun to occasionally turn on and off while driving. I suspect an alternator problem but was wondering if I should try a regulator replacement before buying an alternator. The car is a 2003 Mustang 3.8 with no added electrical accessories. Thanks
Alternator Problem?
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+1 on having the alternator tested before doing anything.
Also inspect the battery terminals, cables and grounds around the radiator core support. Are they clean and tight? don't cut corners here as a weak connection could cause low alternator output.
If looking for a replacement alternator are you considering new or re-man'ed? In your area what is the difference in cost between re-man and new?
How many miles on your alternator?
The reason I ask is replacing the regulator doesn't do anything for the bearings. Where as "in theory" buying a re-man'ed unit has a warranty.
Also inspect the battery terminals, cables and grounds around the radiator core support. Are they clean and tight? don't cut corners here as a weak connection could cause low alternator output.
If looking for a replacement alternator are you considering new or re-man'ed? In your area what is the difference in cost between re-man and new?
How many miles on your alternator?
The reason I ask is replacing the regulator doesn't do anything for the bearings. Where as "in theory" buying a re-man'ed unit has a warranty.
After sitting over night the battery has 12.5 volts with the engine off. With the engine running is shows 14.5. This tells me everything is working properly except during those times when the alternator light comes on. It is a Bosch alternator that I installed 2 years ago. The car isn't driven much so it probably has less than 20K on the alternator. The bearings are quiet and the only indication of a problem is the infrequent times the light comes on.
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The light only comes on if there is an issue with the alternater or broken ground wire on the alternator connector. Also test your battery voltage with your headlights on as well. My alternator light came on my car about last year in a rainstorm.. spun the rear wheels and bam the light came on and went off right after that. I took it up to O'Reilly and they said it was fine but I opted to get it replaced just incase. It was free too. I have not had an issue with the new one yet. It was a cheaply made altima brand alternator. I wish I could get a better one but v6s have limited items as you may know.
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