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I think I have a bit of a problem with the alternator in my sister’s car. It is a 1999 Subaru Outback. At first, the car lost the speedometer and tachometer. When I looked at it last night, it started, but sounded like it needed a boost. The headlights and interior lights were dim. The ABS and battery lights came on (check engine light was already on for a knock sensor). I checked the voltage on the battery with the car running and it read 5.9v. I then turned the engine off and checked it again and it reads 7.0v. I think it is pretty obvious that it is the alternator but I want some input/suggestions before I take the alternator to have it checked.
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I think your doing pretty well yourself, all I can suggest is check all connections and the belt. If good take it off and repair/replace.
I agree an alternator is the most likely cause. I would just check the alternator fuse and do a voltage drop test on the ground for the battery and alternator. If all checks out then replace an alternator.
Hold up. ALWYAS start with the battery whenever confronting an issue like this. If the battery is bad, the alternator can’t keep up. A bad battery can actually bring the entire electrical system down, including the alternator. I would first start by checking the battery before condemning the alternator. Once you get that sorted out, THEN look to the alternator if you still have an issue. More info on solving problems like this here.
http://www.ericthecarguy.com/faq/solving-automotive-electrical-problems
Good luck and keep us posted.
Alright, so I’ve checked her again. This time checking the voltage at the battery. 11.3 volts. No start no crank. I boosted it and checked the voltage after the engine was running for a minute (without booster cables connected). The voltage steadily dropped until the engine couldn’t run anymore. I’ve since had the alternator tested and it is the cause of my problem. Absolutely no output. Thanks guys for the help. Thanks Eric for the videos and the reply to my first post!
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