How do I stop my alternator from overcharging?

Reduce the current reduces the magnetic flux created and this reduces the charge voltage which reduces the charge current to zero and prevents overcharging the battery.

Is overcharging a sign of a bad alternator?

An overcharging alternator can lead to headlights and tail lights prematurely blowing out alone or in tandem. Other burnout symptoms of an overcharging alternator are repeated blown fuses, dash and interior lights blowing out and lights becoming extremely bright when engine speed increases.

Is there a code for a bad alternator?

If you find code P0562, you very likely have a failing alternator (note that codes may vary by vehicle make/model/year). Get it checked out before it fails entirely. If you suspect a failing alternator but don’t have a warning light, pop the hood and check the condition of the belt.

How can you tell if your alternator is overcharging?

However, if the alternator isn’t working correctly, it may send too great of a charge to the battery, which is known as overcharging. This condition is dangerous to your car’s battery and electrical system. You can test to see if the alternator is overcharging, using a simple voltmeter. Start your vehicle and open the hood.

Do you need to check the battery first before checking the alternator?

Check the battery first. The battery is needed to start the vehicle, which, in turn spins the alternator at sufficient speed to keep the battery charged.

What should the voltage be on an alternator?

Check the reading on the voltmeter again. The voltage should increase by between 0.5 and 2 volts to around 13.6 to 15.8. If the reading stays the same or drops, that means the alternator isn’t charging and you may need a new one. If the reading is more than 2 volts higher, that could mean that your alternator is overcharging.

Why does AutoZone test the alternator and charging system?

Keep in mind, when you test your charging system while the car is running, or AutoZone does the same, the system voltage is being tested at the battery, and if it’s not getting a charge, the test cannot determine why. Either the alternator itself is at fault, or the wiring between it and the battery are.

Check the battery first. The battery is needed to start the vehicle, which, in turn spins the alternator at sufficient speed to keep the battery charged.