warning light states LOW BATTERY

[andyb24]

I have a warning light which keeps popping up stating low battery but i have had my battery tested and its fine.
Could this mean the starter motor is on its way out as it keeps stalling at time and the rev gage keeps dropping.

Any ideas Peeps

[dimitrius]

alternator?

[davelowe]

Batteries can be tested in several ways - the best being a CCA or cold cranking amperage. The reading on the device should be similar to that of the battery. A voltage test will not on its own, provide a reliable reading.

Do you have a 1.6 petrol engine? The low revs will cause the alternator to produce insufficient current - as will very short trips. As mentioned, check the alternator output at idle - it should exceed 14.8V at most times.

Other things to look out for are bad earths, and the depahser problem. Ensure you have the battery properly load tested as per my initial paragraph, Anything else, ask!

[andyb24]

Hi Dave

Thanks for the reply.
I will be sure to check the things spoke about.
Thanks Pal

[AlexB]

If the battery is 5-6 years, then just get a new one. These cars are very sensitive to the quality of the electricity source. Get Bosch S5 type from their online shop.

I've seen reports in the past where the batteries were depleted or damaged by frequent restarting the engine caused by some other issues. With Renault 1.6vvt it is likely to be a dephaser problem. Are you getting a rattling noise when starting up the cold engine in the morning?

[andyb24]

on mine its the idle control valve

[aimgo]

Hi Andy

How do you found that is the problem?
Mine just start showing but the car still drives ok and after restart the low batt is gone.

[davelowe]

Very occasionally the problem could be the ECU. This can flash up when re-mapping, and for other random issues.

Check as outlined above - terminal connections, CCA test, age etc.

[andyb24]

Hi

I have BRC Assistance cover with the AA.
They found the problem out.
But i also had an alternator changed as mine was over charging.
Try with the Alternator first see if its over charging if so id replace that first as its the cheaper option.

[aimgo]

Hi Guys

I went to dealer and they confirm its alternator.
Got it change... cut holes in my pocket... two days of driving and no more warning.

[andyb24]

[davelowe]

I acknowledge you've had a successful outcome, it's just a shame that they didn't repair it - the internal regulators are not difficult to solve.

A battery overcharged is as bad as undercharged- and risky owning to explosive problems. Trust me when I say that you don't want sulphuric acid sprayed in your eyes or on your genitals.