newbie help..lights dimming

[CMF_bornwina]

Hi wonder if anyone can help..i have noticed the headlights at night dim when i take my foot off the gas and then brighten again when gas is applied.I have also noticed my stearing is somewhat heavier,could this be the alternator failing???...

 

[CMF_makes]

Hi Bornwina,

I suspect your battery may be starting to fail. The lights dimming thing happened to me for a few days before the battery failed altogether. I suspect the battery is not holding a good charge and the reason the lights are brighter when you put your foot down is because the alternator is providing extra power....but the battery isn't storing it.

How old is the battery ?. I seem to get between 3 & 4 years out of a car battery before it needs replacing.

 

[CMF_bornwina]

No idea how old the battery is as i bought the car seconhand a couple of months ago..visualy the battery looks all good but looks are decieving!!..

 

[CMF_Toma]

Getting your alternator checked might be a good idea too. Take your cr to an auto-electrician and ask if he can check your alternator. Shouldnt be more than $20 i would suspect... Or, grab a Car battery charger and test the battery. If you dont have one, one of your friends might! imho.