Checking the charging system

When checking the charging system, proceed as follows:

If the battery charging warning lamp does not light when the ignition is turned on, check the reliability of the wire connection to the generator, the serviceability of the warning lamp and the integrity of its circuit.

If the lamp still does not light, check the electrical circuit from the generator to the lamp.

If all electrical circuits are working, then the generator is faulty and should be replaced or repaired.

If the battery charge warning light comes on while the engine is running, stop the engine and check the condition and tension of the alternator drive belt and the wiring to the alternator.

Check the voltage regulator as follows:

Connect a voltmeter to the battery and start the engine.

Increase the engine speed until the voltmeter reading stabilizes, which should show 12-13 V, but not more than 14 V.

Turn on the maximum number of electricity consumers (headlights, rear window defroster, heater fan).

In this case, the voltage generated by the generator with a voltage regulator should be 13–14 V.

If the voltage does not match these values, the cause of the malfunction may be: worn alternator brushes, weak brush springs, a faulty voltage regulator or diode, a broken stator winding, or defective rotor slip rings.