Hi all,

My ‘06 GT started doing this thing several months ago where the lights would slightly dim while I was driving. It was minor, so I just sort of kept an eye on it and drove it as normal. Then the charging system light started coming on. I replaced the alternator (off-brand, but brand new—not rebuilt) and things seemed to be better. Well it’s been about 3 months now, and the dimming is back and worse than ever. I’ve noticed if I come to a stop sign with my blinker on, the revs will slightly drop with each blink. I’ve also experimented with things like turning on the flashers and the interior light at the same time. I’ve also toyed with the heater. In short, it seems like if you have more than one of the above listed things turned on, there isn’t quite enough power to run them all efficiently. The car cranks fine, and it has never died. I’ve been driving it for going on two years, and I’ve never changed the battery. The battery doesn’t have a visible date on it, but it appeared relatively new when I bought the car. The battery needle on the dash shows normal. And I’ve had no charging system/battery lights since I replaced the alternator. I’m considering just changing the battery to see if it helps, but I wanted to see if anyone had any thoughts on my situation before I put money into a new battery.

thanks

 

Go get a "Hydrometer" from the local auto supply. As long as it is not one of those "sealed batteries." My second car is a Subaru Forester. Twice now I was greeted by no start out of the blue, and it gets driven most every day. With a hydrometer you can test each cell. This time I found two cells to be in the "not good" area and the rest at the low end of "Fair." Just a little ammo to put on your decision. Batteries are getting pricey! Mine was $145. Advance Auto Parts. "Funny" thing. the battery carried a three year 100% replacement warranty, and it was deceased at three years and eight months.