2002 Mazda Tribute Logo
evan mackay Posted on Oct 17, 2011
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My battery light comes on while driving for about a minute than goes off the alternator and battery are fine i had it checked

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Marvin

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  • Mazda Master 85,242 Answers
  • Posted on Oct 17, 2011
Marvin
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The Battery warning light comes on because the Alternator output voltage has fallen below the voltage (about 12.8 volts DC) required to keep the battery charged, this low Alternator voltage causes the light to come on while this condition is happening. In your case unless the Alternator is tested while the battery warning light is on it will test ok/no problem. The battery itself doesn't turn the light on, only the Alternator malfunctioning. I would think you have a part called a "Diode" failing in the alternator or a wiring issue at the alternator connector(s), either way you need to isolate the problem, it will get worse and you will end up with a no start.

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tnx 4 using fixya,

drcool
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