Electrical problem

[micrasteve]

Hi all,

Wonder if anyone has had this problem with their car and any possible solutions:-

I have a 2000 micra K11 and have recently developed an electrical problem.

When the lights are on the dash board/instrument lights occasionally dim slightly along with the headlights and the battery warning light comes on. I have noticed that if I tap the square digital odometer display below the speedo all lights return to usual brightness.

This has only recently started to happen and it only lasted for a minute or so, however tonight the battery warning light and instrument lights have remained dim which surely puts me in danger of a flat battery.

Where is the problem likely to lie? Please dont tell me it's a dash out joby!

Thanks for any assistance,
Steve

PS- My battery is the original but has never given me any trouble - even when left standing for a few weeks.

 

[matt1987]

check battery voltage first start car and check chare voltage
normail voltage around 12.5v charging around 13.8 - 14.8 ish

 

[micrasteve]

Further to my original post. I believe the problem maybe the alternater not putting out enough power.
It looks like it is only 2 bolts fixing it to the block, 2 electrical connections and the belt. Is replacing the alternater this simple? any advice appreciated.

 

[andy]

yes that easy, disconnect the battery ( neg )