Female in distress

[ziggy_mini]

Ok, driving to work in my Clio Williams tonight the stereo went off & then all dash lights dulled & headlamps were like candles. When I pulled over the car totally died. Would not start at all, dash lights came on but turning over very very slow.
Is this the alternator?
Just put new battery in about month ago.
Have just put in an amp & speakers bout two weeks ago.
Anyone help please

Jaine

[Trooper2]

Yes, more than likely the alternator has expired. You can take a quick look and see if any wires have come loose/broken from the alternator and make sure the battery clamps are tight (ignition off, key out for safety). A garage local to you can run a quick test to confirm the alternator is in fact the cause but it sure sounds like it to me. If the Amp you just had installed is a big one you may want to try upgrading to a higher output alternator when replacing it.

[ziggy_mini]

Oh bugger! Apparently it is only bout 2 hrs labour to change it? Are there better alternators ie; bosch or something?
thanks for your help.

Jaine

[Trooper2]

I've always had good luck with Bosch parts.

Not sure how long to R&R (remove and replace) an alternator on a Clio but 2 hours sounds about average these days.

[ziggy_mini]

ok thanks again, i will let you know how i get on.

[seasider]

If you can wait till later i can get the number of a Mobile repairer Southend based if that helps ?? he is very good & i'm sure could sort out an upgrade if required..

p.m. me if urgent as i might not get back on p.h. till later today..

[ziggy_mini]

Wow, thankyou so much. I am in Harlow area so a bit far away & my local garage said he will get it done today as I am on annual leave starting this week so need the car.
You have been really helpful.
Jaine

[I Cooke]

If you have a voltmeter you can check the alternator yourself. You're looking for ~13V across battery terminals whilst the engine is running. Anything #12 or lower means you're running on the battery alone and I would suggest you drive to a garage nearby!

Edited by I Cooke on Monday 26th March 12:26

[ziggy_mini]

All done. Alternator was well dead!
Mini is in the garage now trying to find why he keeps going flat every few days.
Yipeee - the joys of owning old cars.

Jaine

[Trooper2]

Glad you were able to get it taken care of so quick....