Expert: Ben Deutschman - 8/6/2009

Question
hi i have a 1982 corolla and my car wont start unless i give it a boost. it has a new alternator,regulator and battery.I was told that the alternator is not charging, what could be the cause.

Answer
First thing I'd check, is that the Battery Cables, on the inside of the Terminasl End that goes over the Battery Post, is clean. If there is anyu amount of corrosion, you'll have a bad connection. Most Auto Parts Stores sell an inexpensive tool called a 'Battery Terminal Cleaner', that will allow you to clean both the Battery Post, and the inside of the Terminal End on the Battery Cable.

I'd also check to make sure that any connections to the Alternator are clean and tight. Also check the connections at the Starter. MAKE SURE TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY before working around the Starter, or the Alternator.

If everything checks out, you could have a bad Starter, or a defective Alternator. Some AutoZone stores can check your Starter off the vehicle, and those same stores can also check the Alternator in the vehicle.