Thread: Question about battery voltage

What is the battery voltage suppose to when driving?

On start ups mine is at about 14-14.2 then when warm its about 13.6-13.8 volts. Sometimes dips down to 13.2 when the fans kick on.

^My voltage is about the same. I never had any issues with the charging system even when I had a 600w amp. I figure my alternator is just old and not what it used to be. It should be around 14v when running. My S-10's voltage used to do the same thing and I never had problems with that either. You should be fine unless your running an enormous amp.

yeah , that charging rate sounds about right....i mean you won't get exact figures, but if youre in the ballpark you're good to go

That's pretty standard. Nothing to worry about.

If you ever run the car and the alternator voltage never drops (always at 14.0~14.6VDC), then you have a bad battery. If the voltage is NEVER above 13.4VDC, suspect a failing alternator. I don't know what the trigger points are, but this has always been my rule with charging systems.

That's normal. I'd say just to be on the safe side Rob just check your grounds again. Helps a little.

friend.. i had this happen to me but i was lucky enough to catch it on the 3rd try...

check out the connection to the alternator itself.. check for stripped or wires coming outof connectors.. or the ground being back.. which goes on the side of the alternator itself...

i changed that whole harness which is easy by the way.. got a newer one at a junkyard and bam. fixed. battery light was goin crazy

Your voltage is fine. No need to replace anything.

thanks for the help guys

Where are you measuring the voltage at? right at the battery?
The voltage is not too bad but i would still check your grounds. Could be worth it and could prevent other problems later.

You could have the battery load tested and see if it is just getting old.

Im using my nissdatascan to measure the voltage while driving, and its a brand new battery. Its a Odyssey PC680.