Charge warning lamp on but batt IS charging... - Saxperience

jonshepherd · 19th September 2012, 20:48

I have a fairly decent understanding of battery charging systems on cars, just checking to see if this a common fault with Saxos?

My charge warning lamp comes on intermittently and I have checked the charge voltage across the battery whilst the warning lamp is on (~14.00v) so no problem there.

I've checked the wire between the alterntor and the bulkhead that connects to the chrage warning lamp bulb in the instrument cluster and it looks fine as far as I can see.

Another symptom which may help diagnose the problem is that as soon as I indicated in either direction, the lamp will usally go straight out, or even flash with the indicators?? Are the systems somehow linked on a fuse / relay board?

Cheers

DUFC · 19th September 2012, 20:52

Most common issues with battery lamps on saxos are alternator related.

stevo67 · 19th September 2012, 21:52

Either the voltage regulator or the diode pack on the alternator are faulty mate.

jonshepherd · 21st September 2012, 11:36

If it was the alternator at fault? Surely it wouldn't be producing a good charge? which it is?

Brettles1986 · 21st September 2012, 11:43

Is the lamp on all the time or only whilst "putting your foot down"?

arjlilley · 21st September 2012, 12:05

I have the same problem, but it is only when I "put my foot down"

Brettles1986 · 21st September 2012, 12:35

Quote:

Originally Posted by arjlilley

I have the same problem, but it is only when I "put my foot down"

Alternater for sure with you then, best to get it done now whilst it's still mild out.

stevo67 · 21st September 2012, 13:03

Quote:

Originally Posted by jonshepherd

If it was the alternator at fault? Surely it wouldn't be producing a good charge? which it is?

Its a sign that the alternator is on its way out,trust me i`ve had it with several cars mate.

piggy123 · 23rd September 2012, 23:48

Diode pack will be starting to fail.... Mine came on about 6 months ago and battery was getting 13.6v give or take revs then over time the regulator had to work hard to compensate the issue of the diode pack then about 6 weeks ago it died and got a new unit as mine was past refurbishment!! Diode pack, regulator, rectifier and shaft bearing were completely shot!!

Get it done ASAP

chinkostu · 24th September 2012, 09:09

Before you do, check the wire that connects to the top of the alternator. its a shit excuse for a multiplug and breaks like cheap foil, which is exactly whats happened to mine. Did need a new battery a year or so ago, but the light was on regardless of battery status!