Basically, at idle you can probably get 80 amps out of your alternator. You can charge a flat battery to 80 percent full in
about 2 hours
, so long as you alternator can manage produce around 14 volts at the battery terminals this whole time.
How long should I idle my car to charge the battery?
If you find any of these cars start easily (the starter spins quickly), battery status is likely quite good, and a short drive or idling for
10 to 15 minutes
may be adequate to keep the battery full, if done once every two weeks. If slower cranking is noted, a half hour drive once a week should do the trick.
Does car battery charge while in park?
The answer is ‘
YES
‘, yes the car battery does charge while the engine is idling. … As long as the mechanical action of the alternator is taking place; that is, being turned by the engine crankshaft. Then the alternator is producing AC current, thereby charging the battery while your car is idling.
Does the car need to be running to charge battery?
Remember: After you've done a jump start, you'll need to keep the vehicle's
engine running for around 30 minutes
to allow the alternator time to charge the battery sufficiently.
Does revving the engine charge the battery faster?
But when your engine turns faster, the engine's alternator also turns faster. … That way, all of the alternator's power can be directed to recharging the battery. Once the car starts,
you can rev it up to charge the battery faster
, but the best way to do that is to just drive it.
What are the signs of a bad alternator?
- Dim or Overly Bright Lights. …
- Dead Battery. …
- Slow or Malfunctioning Accessories. …
- Trouble Starting or Frequent Stalling. …
- Growling or Whining Noises. …
- Smell of Burning Rubber or Wires. …
- Battery Warning Light on Dash.
Does battery charge while idling?
The answer is ‘
YES
‘, yes the car battery does charge while the engine is idling. … As long as the mechanical action of the alternator is taking place; that is, being turned by the engine crankshaft. Then the alternator is producing AC current, thereby charging the battery while your car is idling.
How do you keep a car battery charged when not in use?
- If in a secure garage, disengage security system to preserve battery. …
- Charge battery weekly by driving car for at least 30 minutes. …
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal to preserve your battery. …
- Get a portable jump-starter.
Why does my car battery died after sitting for a few days?
Some of the most common reasons for a car battery to die repeatedly include
loose or corroded battery connections
, persistent electrical drains, charging problems, constantly demanding more power than the alternator can provide, and even extreme weather.
How come when I try to start my car it just clicks?
A rapid clicking noise when trying to start your car could mean there's something wrong within the electrical system. Perhaps your
battery's dead
, or your alternator, which charges the battery, isn't working correctly. … You may need to replace your alternator or battery.
Can a bad alternator destroy a new battery?
Can a bad alternator kill a new battery?
Yes, very easily
. A failing alternator can overcharge, which will damage the battery. An undercharging alternator will leave the battery flat, which speeds up its failure.
Can you jump a car with a bad alternator?
While jumpstarting a vehicle with a bad alternator
may technically be possible
, do not leave jumper cables connected between vehicles longer than necessary as it can result in damage to sensitive electronics.
How do you tell if it's your battery or alternator?
An illuminated dashboard light can indicate a problem with an automobile charging system. However, a very simple way to check if the alternator is working is to
run the car and disconnect the positive terminal of the battery
. If the vehicle stops running, then you probably have a bad alternator.
Can a completely dead battery be recharged?
While your vehicle's alternator can keep a healthy battery charged,
it was never designed to completely recharge a dead car battery
. … With a seriously depleted battery, your best option is to connect it to a jump starter or a dedicated battery charger either before or immediately after a jump-start.
How long will a car battery last if not used?
If you're dealing with a fully charged battery that's relatively new and in perfect condition, it will take
2-3 months
for it to lose its power completely. However, you're probably pushing your luck if you let it sit idle for more than two months.
Does trickle charging reduce battery life?
A trickle charger just does so
at a slower rate
, typically at the same rate as the batteries self-discharge. … Keeping your battery charged at a slow and steady rate results in a better charge without reducing the life of your battery like a regular charger does.
