[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Headlights flickering while idling - Help

Posted: 11/19/2009 4:12:35 PM EDT

I own a 2001 Honda Passport and just recently noticed that the headlights and dashboard lights are flickering while idling. I checked my battery and it is ok. Is my alternator going bad?
I don't know much about cars so don't get all technical on me.

Posted: 11/19/2009 4:18:30 PM EDT

[#1]

Possibly, check the voltage that you are getting at the battery while the engine is running. Also, any corrosion on the battery cables?

Posted: 11/19/2009 4:22:07 PM EDT

[#2]

Seems that if its only happening at idle your alternator might not be turning fast enough to produce the amperage your car needs. Someone will be along shortly to elaborate or to prove me wrong.

Posted: 11/19/2009 4:23:04 PM EDT

[#3]

Alternator.

Posted: 11/19/2009 4:29:04 PM EDT

[#4]

it's alternator time. if you watch carefully, you will probably see your headights flickering going down the road at night. drove me nuts until i checked the alternator output with an analog voltmeter-up and down!!!!!!

Posted: 11/19/2009 4:42:38 PM EDT

[#5]

Check your ground wires, make sure there is no corrosion.

If need be, unbolt them, and rescrap their connection points. My buddy had that problem in his CRV, factory grounds were shit, and MADE OVER THE PAINT, instead of paint sanded off, then grounded.

Otherwise, def. alternator, belt could be loose too, not providing enough amps at idle.

Posted: 11/19/2009 4:53:25 PM EDT

[#6]

Its just the Voltage Regulator. Its mounted to the alternator. Take it out of the car, then replace the regulator. Very simple and straightforward job.

Posted: 11/19/2009 4:53:43 PM EDT

[#7]

Definitely sounds like the alternator is going. The regulator can compensate for a diode or two if they fail open. But they will bring others down.

Check idle voltage, should be at least 13.2 volts.

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Headlights flickering while idling - Help

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[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Headlights flickering while idling - Help

[ARCHIVED THREAD] - Headlights flickering while idling - Help