VertigoRT

So, 2002 gs300, 180k, batt was having trouble so i replaced it 2 days ago... turns out it wasnt the issue. The AC light will blink, followed by loss of power steering/speakers go on and off, then the car will drop dead. Charged the batt, ran the motor and took the batt cables off... car still ran, telling me the alternator is ok... ac will blow cold, so long as im moving. Belt looks ok... AC pulley and p/s pulley are a little squeeky, but not terrible. Anyone?

jasonb75

iTrader: (1)

To me, it sounds like the alternator is going bad. Take it to Autozone or advance and they can check it while it is still on the car.

Also, pulling the battery cables off the car while it is still running is a big no-no. Back in the day of non-computerized cars it was ok, but now can do more harm than good.

luda42688

iTrader: (2)

Taking the battery cables off with the car running is noooootttt a good idea and not a valid way of checking to see if the alternator is good or bad. You need to take it to a parts store and they can check it for you. I'm 99% sure this is an alternator issue, if not, somethings seriously wrong.

FrankT

Buy an voltmeter and learn how to use it...

pinoiryder

iTrader: (5)

I thought you can just take off the negative off the battery and this will tell you the alternator is still good.

Ceezo

After it drops dead can you turn the car back on immediately or it wont start, I had the same Problem and ended up being that all the bults/screws on the Positive and negative side cables that hook up to the battery were loose..just tighten everything up but befor you do clean them up a bit itll fix it right up

VertigoRT

Just now changed the alternator... will keep u posted, thanks for ur help, guys!

VertigoRT

Nope... dead again

AMSMIKE

iTrader: (40)

if you replaced the battery and alternator and it still dies. Sounds like a loose connection or a bad connection. clean the terminals on your battery and alternator and make sure everything is tight.

also...any aftermarket electronics installed??? has any wiring been done in the car at all?

whats the battery voltage before start up? while idling?