Automotive/electrical failure

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Expert: Sean Halliday - 7/13/2007


Question
I believe my '98 Infinity I30's alternator failed.  While driving, the radio went out, then the lights dimmed and the car died.  Before I spend the time and money to replace the alternator, can you tell me if there is a way to be sure that my suspicions are correct?

Answer
If you can get the car to start,test the alternator,you dont need to remove it,simply hook up a test meter on the battery terminals.It should read 13.45 approx...to 14.00....you will need to remove the battery to test it for dead cells and its free at most part shops to have it done.

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Sean Halliday

Expertise

general auto repair,japanese,bmw,mercedes,mini cooper 1960/2009,general british cars,ford.I DO NOT work on automatic transmissions.Manual transissions i install clutches only.Many people ask me to diagnose noises from their cars,unfortunately i cannot do this unless i hear it.As you appreciate,vehicles can and will make a variety of noises.I DONT UPGRADE or fit aftermarket performace kits,parts,chips,only replacement parts.

Experience

40 years experience on all general auto repair.

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