Charging system not charging.

[petek157]

I bought a lightly smashed 13 Eco. I've got everything fixed and now with my computer hooked up says the charging system isn't working. Any thoughts? I've spent 5 hours checking for disconnected wires and things of that sort. No joy. Looking for some suggestion before I spend another 5 hours looking.

Thanks in advance
Peter

[humblebeast07]

I also have a question about the charging system. as you can see i have the 2.0t and if i sit and watch the volt meter on the display its slowly goes from 14 to 12.5 or so volts back up to 14 or so, its not effected by the lights stereo, or even rpms, is it designed to do that to extend the life of the battery?

[BruEmbry]

Originally Posted by humblebeast07

I also have a question about the charging system. as you can see i have the 2.0t and if i sit and watch the volt meter on the display its slowly goes from 14 to 12.5 or so volts back up to 14 or so, its not effected by the lights stereo, or even rpms, is it designed to do that to extend the life of the battery?

Hi,
I have noticed this behavior on the 13 Malibu Eco. The 12 volt battery voltage will only be charge after it drops to a certain low voltage. I have-not been able to determine at what voltage level that the batter will be charged. This cycling of the battery should; 1) entend the iife, and 2 increase fual efficancy.

[nutcrunch]

Everytime I check ours it is right on 14.25V, I've never seen it drop.

[tradosaurus]

If your car is still under warranty, which it should since it's less than a year old, then take it to the dealer with your concern.

[ElantraMax]

Belt Slipping?? Or the Voltage Regulator in the Alternator is going bad.

[ElantraMax]

I just had a thought here. My Elantra has a Clutch on the pulley of the alternator. Its used to improve MPG. By reducing the load on the engine. The Clutch (Like on an AC compressor) is controlled by the PCM. I replaced an alternator on a Toyota. Because the Clutch wasnt engaing.

[nutcrunch]

The Eco doesn't have an alternator.

[petek157]

Still looking... As for the warranty, I live over an hour from my nearest dealer. Thats why Im trying to find it first, cause I dont think that it will hold a charge long enough to get me there. The only other option would be to tow it there, but I am not sure if towing is covered under the warranty and Im trying not to spend to much more getting the car on the road. So that being said still looking for suggestions.

Pete

[nutcrunch]

If your car breaks down then they will tow it to the nearest dealer for you.

You say the car was "lightly smashed", did this wreck or whatever happened damage the parts that affect the charging? If so it will more than likely not be covered under warranty.