Ford Taurus Battery Light / Charging System Mystery

- T
- Tom Grommell
  
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posted
19 years ago

Tue, Apr 27, 2004 12:55 AM

I have a 1990 Ford Taurus that runs well. In recent months, the " Low Battery " indicator on the dashboard has occasionally come on. Usually it comes on after a drive, when when stopped at the light, or when backing into a parking spot.

The problem is that when I have a mechanic look at the car, nothing appears to be wrong. Today, I brought it into the shop, where the mechanic said that the battery and alternator were charging just fine. He checked it several times.

Any ideas as to what may be happening? Is it possible that the indicator is malfunctioning, rather than the battery/alternator system?

- H
- hyundaitech
  
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posted
19 years ago

Tue, Apr 27, 2004 5:11 PM

As the alternator gets hot, it can no longer supply proper voltage at low rpm. Replace the alternator and be happy.

- B
- Bill Darden
  
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posted
19 years ago

Fri, Apr 30, 2004 3:56 AM

Hi Tom,

The Battery light is an indication that there is a significant difference between the charging voltage and the battery voltage. Your problem could be one or more of the following:

A slipping alternator belt
Alternator not producing enough power
Battery not accepting a charge
Corrosion on the wiring connections causing a high resistance

I would suggest that you first check the belt and then, while wearing glasses, throughly clean the battery posts and battery cable terminals to bare metal. If the problem continues, take your car to an auto parts or battery store and have the battery and charging system tested for a second opinion. Some stores like Auto Zone, Sears, Wal-Mart, Pep Boys will do this for free.

If they test good and you have added some additional load, then please read Section 5 in the Car and Deep Cycle Battery FAQ on

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Kindest regards,

BiLL......