05 GXP occasionaly dimming of head/fog lights
 

Occasionally, usually after I start the car an it is running for a few minutes, I see the front end lights dimming for a few seconds, then back to normal. I try to see the ammeter and usually(90%) it does not decrease, as though there is a drain on the battery. I have replaced both fog lights as I suspected them. The problem still occurs. Has anyone else had this issue? I see this as being very hard to pin point.

Mine has done the same thing since brand new. However, my voltmeter goes down when the lights dim. I have been told its normal operation of the vehicle.

There is a technical service bulletin for the fog lights which have been discussed at length on the forum. Perhaps this could be part of the problem.

I talked to a good friend at a local Pontiac dealership. He told me that with the voltmeter spike downward, that it is a possible battery situation and is not holding a charge during the spike. He advised I replace the battery. He also said to go with a GM battery as others do not have proper ventilation. The price is about the same as the off brands. I'm sure the original battery is in the car. However, my prior car(2002 SSEi) had the original battery at 102K miles (when I sold it) and it still worked great.

a GM battery? I didn't know that there was one actually made by GM, you can get the same style battery from any brand since there are really 2 big makers

until I put HIDs in my voltage dropped and lights dimmed...etc

I've only had mine a little over a month, but I've noticed the same thing. Either the charging system is being put under a heavy load from something or the alternator limits its output temporarily as you can hear the fan speed drop as well.

ya its a standard operation of the car, my car has the voltage drop when i put the car in reverse. IT only happens for a split second. whats happening is the Regualtor in the Alt isnt always putting a constant charge in the battery, its a on/off type thing happening very fast, when ever there is a large change in electrical load the Alt regulator has to go to a Constant ON mode, there is a small delay, and that is why there is dimming

I understand the load issue. I guess the question is what is causing the heavy load. When it happens to me, there isnt anything going on special to generate a heavy load.

It's a quirk We have heard it here for some time, my does it sporadically as well also. Not a sure sign of a bad battery. . Not something we are going to figure a fix for, and certainly not something GM is going to confess up to. Crunk, I have never seen a "vented" direct replacement other than AC Delco brand. Where are you seeing one? Mine is getting tired. LOL It''s had a rough life .

Is this a GXP only issue, or do the 3800 Bonni's have the same experience?

With regard to the battery, I was checking on-line when I was working on the starter issue on mine....Autozone has a vented style through their Duralast line at $135.00. Advanced Auto also had one at a similar price.

On a dissapointing note, Optima does not offer any vented batteries.

Ken

yes there are vented replacements, John you need to get out more, Advance stocks them because they also fit the Lesaber, Aurora, and the Deville.

I have the Advance in my car and no complaints, and i have more electronics installed than anyone on here