I was driving and battery light came on. Then dash lights...

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Perfect do you have access to a voltmeter ?

No. But mechanic said alternator read 13.77

Ok and this is when the battery light is on ?

Wasn't starting then today. So I changed out batteryCan antifreeze dripping cause this?Small leak?I'm no mechanic

The battery warning light being on and the battery discharging suggests an issue with the alternator not charging correctly .the small leak wont cause this issue

Cap was off antifreeze reserve tankOh ok

This issue will be separate and its likely that the cap just needs refitting and the water pump likely will need replacing

Mechanic suggested water pump but I still questioned because I thought why did it not start at all? Shut off

Water pump is leaking and will need replacement but wont cause the battery light

Okmay be alternator and water pump?!Ugh

I would get alternator tested first its likely the cause of the issue .the water pump if leaking will also need replacing

Ok. Alternator tested 13.77Mechanic said anything over 12 good

I suspect this is intermittent and if tested again will show the voltage is varying and at times dropping below

Got yaMakes more sense

It will need testing again preferably with a charging system tester as this tests the diodes in the alternator to confirm the issue

Lights were dimming. Mechanic said battery had tested at 80% and good. Just thought I'd try save a bit n double check least expensive solutions as single parent

I feel your pain it needs testing properly to ensure but the battery light being on suggests a charging system fault

Ok. Thank you so much. Test diodes in the system w charging system tester. I thought Pep Boys would have used that...Makes sense

Most only use a volt meter and it doesn't give the full picture .

Now that you say that. I know he did. I remember he did say volts

Yeah sounds that way .keep me posted

I'm so glad to have this service! Hurray for uninformed single parents!Thank you so much

I glad i could assist .your very welcome