idiot lights

#1 02-01-2003, 08:29 PM

has anyone ever had all of the idiot lights come on at one time while driving ? they all come on at random times.or sometmes never....just wondering

#2 02-01-2003, 08:33 PM

This has been known as the symptoms of a failing alternator. I'd get it checked at a competant shop.

lee · #3 02-02-2003, 12:48 AM

yes, get it checked....but also when I was new to this forum and had the same problem someone suggested I reset my computer. Per directions, I did that by taking the battery cables off the battery and jumping across them to discharge the system. Warning, you can't do this if you have a big cap as part of an add-on stereo system though. Maybe I'm lucky, but it's been about 10K miles since I did that with nary a problem. best o' luck.

Seraph · #4 02-02-2003, 09:10 AM

When that happens again, stick a volt meter to check your voltage. Chances are they are around 9Volts. When you hit 9 volts, while driving, put the car in N and hit the gas once. Aim for around 5500 or more. Put the car back in D and check for voltage again. Sometimes, the voltage regulator in the car acts up. But safer to get a new alternator.

L

#5 02-02-2003, 06:45 PM

i have had a volt meter on it for a while, and i noticed that it isnt charging very well at under 1000 rpm's...so thats what i thought the problem was...but i noticed last night that while driving at about 45 mph and i give it enough gas to downshift.....the tranny slips..and all the idiot lights come on..and the voltage is ok.so now im confused