QuestionThe Battery not charging indicator lights up on my 1996 Sebring JX. The battery is 6 mo old. The alternator is original. The belt is fairly new and in good shape. The alternator is spinning, not makiing any noise. Before I replace it, is there anything alse which may have gone suddenly to cause this issue? Any tips on replacing the alternator?
AnswerHi Fran,
It is doubtful that the wiring may be the problem, but check to make sure that the wires/plugs at the alternator are attached and look to be in good shape. Otherwise if the light stays on it means the alternator is not putting out voltage/current sufficient to charge your battery. You can get a free assessment of that fact at an Autzone parts store or other parts store (inquire if they will test the alternator for free).
You didn't mention whether you have a 4 cyl or a 6 cyl engine so the exact things that have to be removed to change the alternator are not something I can easily describe, so if you want to do it yourself write back and tell me. In either case you will want to jack up the right front and remove the tire, then remove the splash shield that separates the wheel well from the front of the engine for better access to the belts for removal, etc.
If you want to do a self-test that verifies the charging system:
ignition key:"on-off-on-off-on and leave on" doing that in 5 seconds or less elapsed time, then watch the check engine light that remains 'on' to begin to flash, pause, flash, etc. Count the number of flashes before each pause. Then repeat for accuracy. Then group the numbers in pairs in the order of appearance. Last pairs will be 5 in each, i.e. the number 55 which is "end of readout". 41 or 47 are relavant to the problem of charging.
Roland
