Q: Service battery charging system

asked by on February 25, 2017

My vehicles service battery charging system light is on. My vehicle won't start even on a jump. It is currently at 11.3v of battery voltage and it will just click when I go to start it what could be my problem

My car has 148743 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

Battery is dead Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Battery Replacement $247.05 - $377.49 Get a Quote
Car is not starting Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Alternator Replacement $166.62 - $1297.14 Get a Quote

The battery should be fully re-charged and then load tested. If the battery passes a load test be sure it is not a marginal pass in which case you should install a new battery to reduce diagnostic headaches. Once you have a verified or "new" battery, attempt to start the car. If the car does not start, request a no start diagnostic and the responding mechanic will get it diagnosed and repaired for you. If the car does start, charging system output should be verified against factory specifications to make sure that the battery is being properly maintained. To have charging output tested, request alternator inspection/testing. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

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


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

What does the vehicle dynamic control system do?
Your car is equipped with a vehicle dynamic control (VDC) system. It’s designed to monitor the driving conditions and your input (brake use, steering wheel use, etc.) and to step in if necessary. Here’s what it does: The VDC system...
Removing the rear reflectors from the bottom of the car
The reason they do that is to make them more aerodynamic, so that they get better gas mileage ratings for the Federal Government and so that they get points from the government. So go ahead and take them off if...
Startup difficulty
Hello there, a few different things can cause an intermittent no start condition. The most likely causes are the battery, fuel pump, starter, ignition switch, battery cable or a wiring fault. You have replaced a few of these components, but...
Battery drained in under 24 hours
This may be caused by many possible issues such as a short in the electrical system, a bad grounding connection, a faulty alternator, or a weak battery. Without further details, this may be difficult to diagnose. I would recommend having...
My car is not starting when the MAF sensor is plugged in - 1991 Nissan Serena
This may be a sign of a dirty or failing mass air flow sensor. The mass air flow sensor is a unit in the intake system that monitors air intake as it is mixed with fuel prior to being injected...
Do you have to remove the transmission on a 2003 Chevy Tracker with a 4 cyl. engine to replace the crankshaft position sensor?
Hi there. The crankshaft sensor is mounted behind the engine flex plate flywheel. The transmission and the flex plate flywheel needs to be removed to replace the crankshaft sensor. If you need help with a crankshaft sensor replacement (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/crankshaft-position-sensor-replacement), a...
Loud clanking noise between front belt and fan. Fan appears loose 2003 Mercedes ML350
Hello - while it is possible that there are simply loose nuts/bolts for the fan, it is most likely the fan clutch (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-fan-clutch) is failing, hence the wobbling fan. I recommend a fan clutch replacement (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/fan-clutch-replacement) as soon as possible,...
What should it cost to replace ac compressor, accumulator
It takes roughly 12 hours to replace the compressor and expansion valve. As you may know, the expansion valve is attached to the evaporator under the dash and thus is not readily accessible, hence the hours. If you input your...
Car jerking and gas smell and loud noise
The most important issue is the fuel odor which signifies either a leak (vapor or liquid) or engine misfiring. A leak is potentially disastrous, especially if you park in an enclosed space such as a garage where vapors can accumulate....

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche
Few Few vehicles are as distinctive as the Chevrolet Avalanche. Part SUV, part truck, the Avalanche is actually surprisingly practical. On the inside, it feels more like a Chevy Tahoe, except when you look out your rearview mirror, you’ll notice...
How to Charge a Dead Car Battery
The battery in your car can go dead for any number of reasons leaving you stranded. It can be low from lights being...
Electric Cars and How They Work
Electric cars use an electric motor driven by a control unit. Their batteries are filled at charging stations and they produce no tailpipe emissions.