Thread: Idle voltage....Alternator?

Originally Posted by Sabrewings

Faulty voltage regulator in the alternator or faulty alternator. It's simply having trouble maintaining voltage at idle. My car can maintain up to 15+ volts if the battery is low at 650-700RPMs idle. If it isn't giving you problems while driving, then it really isn't a big deal.

Though, I've seen this be a prelude to an alternator that just gives out. Can't say exactly when or even if. But it's possible.

I was off on my accusation of the idle speed. And agree with you on your above statement. But for the record mine does the same thing....untill around 900 rpm's then it jumps to around 14. something

True

Before anything you should get yourself a good voltage gauge that plugs into the cigarette lighter, or a multimeter on the battery is best. The voltage gauges on the dash are a good indicator but never 100% accurate, often they can be out a fair bit.