Thread: Strange Problem

I think this is a wiring issue or my alt. is dying.

This started a week ago and it is very strange. The e-brake will light up over bumps or hard accels (it lights up from the second I start the car) but will turn off when I give a sharp press on the brakes for a split second and then return on a bump again.

I tried sitting the car, and just banging on the alt while that e-brake light was on but it did not do anything. Only the sharp press on the brakes clears this.

Anyone experience the same thing? Thoughts, comments, questions, concerns?

Thank you in advance.

edit: I mention the alt. because both the e-brake and check engine lights are on.

Have you checked your break fluid?

Not sure why your messing with the alty, the battery light with ebrake like must be on at the same time for a faulty alty.

Indeed. Also you could check the e-brake button thats inside the little area beneath the E-brake handle. It could be malfunctioning, damaged wire, something putting pressure on it etc.

I know, both the lights are on, that is why I even bothered to mention the alt. to begin with. I will check the brake fluid when I get a chance.

Ah, you didn't mention that the battery light was also on

When was the last time you replaced the alty? If recently or a year ago did you get it from a local store?

I rebuilt my alt. 4 years ago. Never had an issue since until the past 5 days.

Yeah brake light on = low fluid

Checked fluid and the levels are mid to mid-low. Not near the MIN level as expected.

I do not believe that mechanically the alternator is not working also. I sat in traffic running an errand staring at the back of cars stopping and going for ten minutes gave me a chance to look at my headlights reflect off of the bumper of the car ahead of me. Luckily it was a dark, cloudy day with rain so I could see light even more. The lights don't dim when I am idle and when I rev it, they stay the same brightness. I rule out the alt.

Gonna get some more fluid just for the heck of it soon.

Well thats why the light turns on when you hit bumps and give it gas. Its a liquid so its gonna move.

They have been at this level since I did a complete fluid flush. Why would it be doing this now when the level has been the same? I am still going to get some fluid to refill it but I have to wonder why now.