Battery light

Bertha,

There are two separate and different systems at work here. They are the starting system and charging system. Keeping it simple the battery is the starting system and the alternator is the charging system. Both systems are made up of voltage connections and ground connections. The first thing you gotta do is make sure that all the connections are on tight and that they are clean in both systems. Ground connections are especially important. Use one part water and one baking soda to clean all the connections. This includes the heads on the battery cables. Use a course piece of sandpaper to clean the terminals on the battery. Clean them till they are shiny silver. If the problem persists, and the light is still on, then you need to have a "Load Test" done. This is a simple test that any qualified professional mechanic can do. You can also remove the alternator and battery from your vehicle and take them both to any Auto Zone and have them both tested for free. Posting the year, make, model, and engine size of your vehicle would be a good idea, as it will allow us to post vehicle specific repair information.

Bertha,

I agree with Big Block. Posting the year, make, model and engine size can be very important. We will then know if it has an external regulator or not and will be able to check for TSBs (technical service bulletins) in addition to standard repair procedures.

As Big Block said, we would recommend taking advantage of Autozone's free test but I would prefer that the initial starting/charging test be performed on the vehicle if you feel you can get it there safely.

Post back here with more info or questions. We'll be glad to help. Thanks.

Bertha,

Bump Bump.
Just tryin to help you.
Haven't seen a response or answer from you.
Really doesn't matter to me.
This is your problem.
Just tryin to help you.
Post an update if you want.
Otherwise good luck.

Bertha,

(You said) I just cannot afford to do anything right now.

One more time, and just in case you missed it the first time. Auto zone will check BOTH your battery and alternator for FREE.

Bertha,

In addition to a free test from Autozone and free help from us, I'd like you to keep in mind that there could also be a free (or atleast inexpensive) repair involved. As it stands right now the only thing you really have to lose is your time.

I know this is your vehicle and your call but if it were mine, I wouldn't throw in the towel at this point. Let us know if you need any other help. Thanks.

Bertha,

Although, Auto Zone will test your battery and alternator for free, I understand that the difficult part about the above statement is gettin the alternator and battery to an Auto Zone store in the first place. It means you have to remove the battery and alternator, get them to the store for testing, and then reinstalling them both yourself. That could be a problem. Watch the video's below. They are simple and basic, and can be done with basic tools. The best part is that you can do them yourself, and you don't have to remove the battery or alternator from your car.

http://www.ehow.com/video_2319935_test-car-battery-multimeter.html

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bzz7P3qNHcE

Note:

To get a precise reading on your multi-meter set it to 50 volt DC scale. Also (for a precise) reading the meter leads should be connected to the post of the battery, instead of the battery cable head. The red lead of the multi-meter should be connected to the positive terminal of the battery and the black lead should be connected to the negative battery terminal. Hold the meter leads in place on the battery terminals for at least 15 seconds, before you note the meter reading. For a 12 volt car battery the reading must be at least 9.6 on the multi-meter for the battery to take charge. If it's less than 9.6, then it's time to opt for a new battery.

i hope the fuses were checked frist?:)

Bertha,

With all due respect to MWS your problem has nothing to do with:

Blown fuses
Blown master fuses
Blown fusible links
or blown circuit breakers.

So that accurate repair information and SUGGESTIONS can continue to be posted, you gotta start answering the questions that continue to go unanswered. The same goes for the tests I posted this morning. These tests are easy and are not gonna cost you anything if you do them yourself. We gotta start seeing some feedback from you if you ever want to get this problem fixed?