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Alternator or Battery? which is it?

My battery finally died tonight. So I got it jumped and drove to autozone. I replaced my battery easily by my self. They were 5 min from closing so I just made it. My question is .How do I know that its JUST my battery and not my alternator? Also how long do Honda alternators last? My battery was at least 5 years old, maybe more? My Mom used to own the car she said she couldnt remember exact date she bought the battery. Is there a way to TEST the alternator to see if its still good, without removing it from car?

Reply to
Private Private
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back in the old days you could remove a cable from the battery while the car was running. if it died, the alternator was bad. don't know if you can use the same process for a new car.

bob z.

Reply to
bob zee

Try the five quick and dirty checks listed at

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What year and model of Honda? How many miles on it?

"Private Private" wrote

Reply to
Elle

Reply to
l390f

The AutoZone's around where I live will do a free test for you. Go back with your receipt and ask them to hook her up to their meter.

Reply to
Felony Bob

Almost all auto parts stores will do a free test on your charging system. What state are you in?

Reply to
william1977

Adding loads is supposed to drop the voltage from the generator. When test 3 is taken with the other tests, they offer insight. The wording is as I intended.

"l390f" wrote

Reply to
Elle

It's risky now. Solid state stuff like the ECU and transmission controller and radio might take it the wrong way. It has been done with no bad effects but it's an awful chance to take.

A voltmeter is quicker and more comprehensive anyway.

Mike

Reply to
Michael Pardee

Oops my bad I left out what car I have. Its a 1993 Honda Del Sol Si w/

65K miles. I'll go back to AUTOZONE and see if they can test alternator. Can they test it while its in the car?
Reply to
Private Private

I googled this link.

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Reply to
Private Private

Yes they will test your cars charging system on the car.

Reply to
william1977

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