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sandypaws
Lv 6
sandypaws asked in Cars & TransportationMaintenance & Repairs · 10 years ago

Alternator or Wiring problems?

Having a major issue with my Jeep. Starts just fine and runs fine too, but when I start driving all the gages go to the far left & all the dash warning lights stay light up ( just like when you turn the key but haven't yet started the vehicle) - still running just fine though. I've been told it could be the voltage regulator inside the alternator or a wiring problem in general. How can I find out if it is in fact the voltage regulator without spending $200 on an alternator I may not even need

Update:

Ok - Auto Zone can check the alternator, starter & battery ( battery less than 1 year old btw). Who or where do I call to get the "grounds" checked? ( and what exactly does that mean - check the "grounds". Also, when my dad looked at it on Sunday - he kept asking me if I had the switch on when he was cleaning the battery posts - but the keys were in my pocket!! That sounds electrical to me, but have no clue where to start looking for the problem. HELP!!

3 Answers

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  • C.M. C
    Lv 7
    10 years ago
    Favorite Answer

    Sandypaw, hi how are you? Yes it could be wiring or the reg. My wife had the Grand Cherokee, and hers turned out they couldn't find the problem even after a computer replacement from Chrysler. Your best bet is to get it to the Auto Electrician, whoever you use, they will attach an external computer to diagnose the problem and tell you what it is.

    As Jeeps get on with age they do start to fail, was common with Chrysler.

  • CactiJoe
    Lv 7
    10 years ago

    Take it to Advance Auto or Auto Zone and have them do a free charging system diagnostic. This checks the battery and alternator and starter.

    Good Luck!

    Source(s): Me
  • 1959
    Lv 6
    10 years ago

    sounds to me like a wiring problem , I usually start by checking the grounds, The grounds aer the negative wires that ground the battery to the engine and the body to the frame and so on

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