Q: Charging System indicator light is on
The Charging System indicator light is on in my car.
Recommended Services
| Battery will not hold a charge Inspection | $94.99 - $114.99 | Get a Quote |
Hi there. If the charging light is on while the engine is running then that is almost always an indicator of a failing alternator. You should start by checking the connections at the battery to see if they are clean and tight. Corrosion on the battery terminals or any looseness can cause this to occur. If nothing is found there then a I would typically do a load test on the battery and the alternator to see which one is failing. If this is something that you cannot do, I would have a certified mechanic inspect your vehicle’s battery for you to determine what has gone wrong.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our
terms of service
for more details
Get an instant quote for your car
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing
What others are asking
What do I do if the Check Fuel Cap message appears?
Your car is equipped with a pretty sophisticated evap/emissions system that monitors the level of pressure in the gas tank. This is done to detect possible leaks, including a loose gas cap. If you’ve left the cap loose (or off),...
1996 Chevrolet Corvette cranks but won't start
There are a few possible causes for your concern. Your engine needs several things in order to run properly: Fuel from the fuel tank, spark from the ignition system to ignite the fuel, and pressure in the cylinders generated by...
Ball joints rack and pinion
Personally, I have not heard of this situation before, but any failing suspension component puts more stress on the rest of the system as they are designed to work together. If you would like a mechanic to inspect the suspension...
What can make loud whining/whistling noise and hesitation when accelerating to higher speeds?
I would recommend checking the timing belt (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/timing-belt-replacement) tension. Also, check other pulleys, tensioners (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/drive-belt-tensioner-replacement), etc. If everything seems to be tight as necessary, try some belt dressing on these belts. I'd suggest having a certified mechanic, such as one...
Rough idle and RPM fluctuation
This may be a sign of a faulty MAP sensor. The Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor senses engine load and generates a signal that is proportional to the amount of vacuum in the intake manifold. The engine computer then uses...
Have a 2000 Jeep grand Cherokee Laredo 4.0. The voltage gauge is not working and it spits and sputters while alternator is hooked up.
Hi there. If the alternator is causing the volt gauge on the dash to stop working, then the polarity on the wires is backwards. Check the power wire to the alternator and make sure that its hooking up to the...
How to fix electrical lost
Trying to diagnose electrical issues remotely is one of the more difficult things to accurately accomplish. Due to the fact that multiple components might be faulty, you should have a professional mobile mechanic complete an electrical problems inspection (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/front-crankshaft-seal-replacement) at...
What does this code mean P0420 ? 1997 Chevy Express 1500
Hello - the P0420 code (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0420-obd-ii-trouble-code-catalyst-system-efficiency-below-threshold-bank-1-by-jamahl-walker) means the catalytic converter has lost it's ability to burn residual fuel. This could be due to an engine condition that has clogged the catalyst, or a failing oxygen sensor that is not adequately...
P0302 2003 Pontiac Aztek
Hi there - if I'm reading your notes correctly, you "checked" the plugs and wires, but did not replace them. For your mileage, you need to replace the spark plugs at least, and possibly the plug wires as well. Misfiring...
Related articles
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Honda Accord
The The 2012 Honda Accord has a lot to offer. From great fuel economy to comfortable features and a sleek, modern look, it’s no wonder so many people love the Accord. Though, unlike the Civic, Honda has yet to offer...
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Honda CR-V
The The fourth generation Honda CR-V was unveiled in 2012 with a total redesign. One of America’s favorite compact SUVs got a new look and a lot of great new features, including an all-wheel drive (AWD) option, as well as...
2012 Ford Edge vs. 2012 Honda Accord: Which One Should I Buy?
Comparing a small SUV or a crossover to a sedan or coupe doesn’t quite seem fair: while the crossover is likely to cost more, it will also have a different skill set than the car as well as a completely...
Browse other content
Services
Estimates
Cities