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"Check charging system"

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Old 11-05-2007, 01:35 PM
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Greetings to all BC members. I've been getting the "Check charging system" message on my DIC the past week, the weird part is that it comes and goes randomly. The alternator was replaced 2 years ago. It also seems to appear after I wash the car or sometimes when it rains. The voltage on the DIC reads 12.00volts at normal engine temp. What do I look for? Thanks for your input.
Old 11-05-2007, 03:43 PM
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It sounds as if you have an intermittent failure in the alternator. Do you know the brand of the replacement? The voltage reading, even at idle should be in the high 13s to mid 14s, depending on the charge of the battery. Try measure the voltage at the alternator, where the single wire is that attaches with a nut, to a good ground. Check the voltage directly across the battery, also.
Old 11-05-2007, 04:24 PM
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Thanks for the info Archon. I checked the voltage from the alternator and it varied from 11.9 to 13.9. I tried tapping the top of the alternator with the handle of a screwdriver and the voltage dropped from 14.00 to 12.00. The make of the alt is a rebuilt Delphi. I will bring the car back to my mechanic and see if it'* still on warranty. Thanks Archon.
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