crazy 'check charging system' indicator
 

I've read a bunch of posts about this, but I have a question about the duration. I got a new battery more than 3 months ago, and immediately started getting the red battery light and the 'check charging system' indicator. Every time I drive this happens. I clear it, and sometimes it comes back, but most of the time it doesn't happen again during that particular drive. I verified all my connection are OK. I'm going on 4 months with this. The battery turns over really fast when I start the car. It's showing no signs of weakening. Question: How long does it take for the battery to ruin my alternator or the alternator to ruin my battery, or is the warning meaningless?

Your alternator is going out. The "check charging system" warning comes up when the alternator fails to output at least 12.5 volts. Depending on how far it dips and for how long, it can take months to ruin a battery or a few days. Get a volt meter next time the light is on and check the voltage at the battery. A good alternator will output between 13.5 and 14.2 volts. Anything less than that and the alt is going bad.

I picked up a brand new alternator on Amazon by TYC for about $120. It's been 6 months now and is working flawlessly in the AZ heat.

Thanks - I'll head over to Autozone later and check for the numbers you provided. I've noted the Amazon link as well.

Alternator MUST put out 13.5+ to charge the battery. 12.5 is still too low!