what happens if a car alternator is overcharged?

Question

i just bought my car and already the dash lights are blinking on and off, ive had all of the warning lights come on and off only to reset the clock and trip computer (mileage stayed the same) every once in a while my electronic windows decide to switch sides i.e. i press the drivers side down and the passengers goes down and vice-versa, is this an alternator issue or a bad ecu? 

also the alternator light, epc and emissions warning lights come on when turned to second position but disappear when the engine starts, any ideas?

thanks

FlagMichael · Accepted Answer

Make, model, and year would help a lot, but I suspect the engine ground is bad. The battery and alternator ground to the engine but nearly everything else grounds to the chassis. If there is not a good connection from the engine to the chassis weird things happen, like you describe.

Testing the engine ground is easy with a voltmeter. With the engine running and the lights on there should be less than a tenth of a volt difference between the chassis and the engine.

mdk68gto, ase certified m tech · Answer

the light should some on as part of the system check. as for the alternator, you should have the charging system and battery tested out. with that pulsing in the electrical system, you could have either a failing diode (part of the rectifier) in the alternator. in some situations, the alternator regains the ability to generate ac voltage to an extent.

Michael B · Answer

Short in the wiring, your alternator does not get overcharged, but your battery might...

? · Answer

the battery will blow up. 13 volts is all you need in a battery. try leaving the headlights on high beams, radio on, interior lights while you sleep.

bandit_60 · Answer

if the battery is overcharged then the battery will bulge.

? · Answer

your car becomes a transformer and u can fight crime with it

Trending News

what happens if a car alternator is overcharged?

6 Answers