Alternator/Battery Issue

Fluidity · 02-22-2004, 01:45 AM

Hi Guys,

Today when I started my car I noticed the battery light on. I drove around for a while when I noticed my dash lights started to dim. When I opened my window(electric) the dash dimmed even more.

The question is has anyone experienced this? Could it be the battery or is it the Alternator?

Does anyone recommend a mechanic thats fair in the west end?

Or can Spud Boy change it for me?

Thanks Guys
Stan

ChahalzBMR · 02-22-2004, 02:37 AM

It's your alternator. The samething happend to me a while back. The battery lights stays on and when the car starts to lose power all the lights on the display come on and all of a sudden the car shuts off. That is your alternator.....

**thinair** · 02-22-2004, 07:42 AM

Does your car start ok?

I'll say it's the alternator, but then again there is a slight chance that it's the battery not holding it's charge properly.

Fluidity · 02-22-2004, 03:21 PM

The car was starting fine yesterday. I havent tried it today as of yet. Is an alternator easy to get at? Can I do it myself? What did you guys pay for the replacement, I just want to make sure my mechanic doesnt rip me off.

BMW BMXer · 02-22-2004, 03:27 PM

Its the alternator. Is the battery light on dimley?

Happened to me. Dont drive too far.

Fluidity · 02-22-2004, 03:29 PM

Yes, the battery light is on dimly.

Alwysfresh · 02-22-2004, 03:55 PM

Take it to Charlie...he's the best. His maxbimmer nick is bimmersport, or call him 416-949-5701 and say you're from max. He's near square one.

**thinair** · 02-22-2004, 03:57 PM

Well, you have a few options for your alternator, get a new one, get a rebuilt one, get a used one, or get yours rebuilt, in order of cost.

A new one and usually a rebuilt one will have a warrenty of some kind. A used one won't (for more then a few days).

If you plan on keeping the car for a while, get a new one. If you're a little strapped for cash get a rebuilt one, or get yours rebuilt. If you're selling the car soon and don't care, get a used one.

BMW BMXer · 02-22-2004, 09:16 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Fluidity
Yes, the battery light is on dimly.

Ya man. Your alternators had it.

Mine went in the summer. Picked up a used one of a maxmember for 50 bucks. I was quoted 180 to rebuild my pooched one.

crazyvadim · 02-22-2004, 11:33 PM

If you work on cars yourself then i would suggest rebuilding it yourself,its pretty easy depending on whats wrong with it otherwise just get it rebuilt or buy a new one,i wouldnt suggest used alternators.....dont deal with them at my shop,i only replace em.