Subaru Repair: Battery and emergency brake dash lights flickering, voltage drop test, daytime running lights

Question
3 months ago the battery and e-brake dash lights began to flicker on my Subaru Outback. When they flash, the daytime running lights also flash at the same time as does the e-brake indicator on the in-dash gps, although music continues to play w/out a problem. Sometimes there is no flickering for days, other times it's frequent. When the e-brake dash light is flashing and the e-brake is put on, the dash light illuminates brighter. Battery is charging normal when lights aren't flashing, and seems to charge at 11.4 when dash lights flicker. Battery and alternator test fine. (can't get it to flash at mechanics) otherwise car runs great. Mechanic can't figure it out. Thank you for your help!

Answer
Nicole,

If the battery/charging voltage is only 11.4 there is a problem in the circuit as it really should be over 12.4, the amperage output needs to be checked as well as a voltage drop test

Can't really diagnose it for you without seeing the car but it doesn't sound to me like whoever is trying to diagnose it is going about the diagnoses the proper way.  At our shop alternators are put in real type driving conditions and checked, most shops pull the car in and test the alternator, which will not catch every one that has intermittent issues or the ones that have issues as they heat up or have problems after the car is driven for a while with a majority of the electrical accessories on.

Justin

www.allwheeldriveauto.com