Yo...



Ok, so I had a replacement alt go bad charging 16 volts. I noticed immediately and shut the car off, so there was no damage I don't think.



So I got the alt replaced and put the new one in. The problem this time is that the warning idiot lights don't come on when I turn the key on. If I remember, that means the alternator is not plugged into the harness, but the connector is connected... Should I return this thing again? It seems to be charging fine day and night so...



Actually, the odd part is that the warning lights actually do come on but very dim. Kind of like if your alternator is not putting enough juice out at idle.



This is s5 btw which makes a difference as far as alternator harness plugging status, which is why I'm asking.



Should be safe to drive at least eh?

 

yeah i think you are correct.



i think it can charge the battery and not light the light?

 

Well it charges, so thats good. Though I think it is only charging at a steady level instead of responding to electrical load which is what it is supposed to do (iirc).