1. Check if the alternator drive belt is broken. If a break occurs, replace the belt and adjust its tension (see «Replacing the alternator drive belt»).
2. If the belt is intact, check and, if necessary, adjust its tension (see «Checking the alternator drive belt tension»).
3. If the belt is tensioned normally, check if the F1 fuse in the fuse and relay mounting block has blown. The location of the fuses and their ratings are indicated in this manual (see «Electrical faults»), in the car repair manual, in the wiring diagram, on the body of the mounting block and on the fuses themselves. If the fuse is blown, replace it, start the engine and check if the low battery light goes out. If the lamp goes out, you can continue driving.
4. If the battery discharge lamp does not go out, check the wires connected to the terminal «plus» battery…
5.... to the starter..
6.... and to the generator. Wires may be broken, broken inside the insulation, or have oxidized or unreliable contacts. Repair the problem and start the engine. If the charging current appears, you can continue driving.
If, after the measures taken, the charging lamp continues to burn when the engine is running, then the possible cause of the malfunction lies in the generator itself. There may be several reasons, and it is better to eliminate them in a car service or garage, and you can only hope that there is enough energy in the battery to get to them.
Note. In order to reduce current consumption when driving a car with a faulty alternator, if possible, turn off the radio, unnecessary lights, heater fan, defroster, etc.
Vehicle check
You will need: Flat and Phillips screwdrivers, wrench «at 12» (two), DC voltmeter, megohmmeter.
1. Pull out the rubber boot and connect the wire «+» to terminal «B+» generator, and the wire «–» to the generator housing.
2. Start the engine and turn on the car headlights.
3. After 15 minutes of engine operation at medium speed, measure the voltage, it should be in the range of 14.4–15.1 V. If undercharging or overcharging is observed (voltage is out of range), replace the voltage regulator.