Welcome back to Top Five Auto Repairs! Today, we’re discussing a common issue that can cause serious damage to your car battery: an overcharging alternator. Typically, alternators produce between 13.2 and 14.5 volts, but anything above 15 volts is considered an overcharging state. This excess voltage can cause your battery to overheat, expand, and even crack, leading to a range of electrical issues.
One of the first signs of an overcharged battery is brighter-than-normal headlights and taillights. The bulbs are receiving more power than they should, causing them to glow brighter and eventually blow out. You may also notice warning lights illuminating on your dashboard, your radio malfunctioning, and other odd electrical issues, such as doors randomly clicking on and off.
In addition to these warning signs, an overcharging alternator can trigger the check engine light and cause a range of circuit codes to appear. Fuses and relays may also start to fail, as they’re designed to protect accessories from excess power.
So, what causes an overcharging alternator? The most common culprit is a failed voltage regulator or excessive rust, but a bad computer or ECM can also be to blame. If you suspect that your computer may be the issue, it’s important to get it checked out by a professional.
In conclusion, an overcharging battery can cause serious damage to your car’s electrical system and should be addressed as soon as possible. Keep an eye out for the warning signs discussed above and seek professional help if you suspect that your alternator is producing too much power.