Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Car electrical matter of not knowing if the battery is charging? Have a volt meter but need advice on reading?

Any general advice appreciated. It is a Nissan, 1986 model. With motor off and ignition on the volt meter shows about 11 volts. Shouldn't it show 12? Let me know. Thanks.Car electrical matter of not knowing if the battery is charging? Have a volt meter but need advice on reading?
Minimum voltage reading when at rest is 12.5.When running at fast idle ie 1500rpm,reading should be 13.5-14.5 with all electrics on,lights heater demister etc.Before doing this,disconnect both bat terminal clamps ind clean the bat posts and clamp internal surfaces until bright metal show,then cover with battery terminal grease and reassemble,Nissan's have a habit of crap terminal connections.If any of the test result in a reading of less than 12.5 v,substitute the battery,use jump leads if necessary,it's only for test purposes.if the readings change to normal,higher,then the battery is shot.if the same readings come up,then the alternator is shotCar electrical matter of not knowing if the battery is charging? Have a volt meter but need advice on reading?
With ignition on, the voltage will drop. 11 means you probably have a weak battery. What does it read running? It should be between 13.5 and 14.5 Volts.
The battery voltage should be 12.7 with the engine off and around 13-14 with it running. Check a car that you know is good for a comparision

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