yOoOoo

My car wont start. I would jump it then it would turn on but as soon as i unplug the batter cables it'll shut right off. Only thing i could think of is a bad alternator. How long they usually last on our maximas ?? Cause i have about 82k mi on my car. Anybody think its possibly something else ??

frankd121

iTrader: (1)

My altenator went at 81k...did you notice any problems before your car died on you? My dash lights went really dim, check engine light went on, air bag light went on, e-brake light wouldn't go off, and eventually, my dash stopped working.

Deckdout2

iTrader: (151)

i've never unplugged any terminals with the car running before. is it suppose to keep the car on? maybe that could be the issue? your best bet would to probably go to a local parts store and let them check the alternator.

yOoOoo

Frankd i've had the exact problem as you. It was doing that for a good couple days and now boooom its done. Before anything im going to get my close friend of mine to check the alternator to see if its giving any power. Everyone told me its the alternator but im juss seeing to make suure if ours suppose die out this early.

frankd121

iTrader: (1)

yea, its definitely the altenator, went to autozone, had them test it. The altenator was only pushing out 9-10 amps. You'll also need to get a new battery too.

yOoOoo

I just bought a new battery about a month ago, i'll charge it up it'll be no problem. i can't even drive it to autozone since it keep shutting down soonest i unplug the jumping cable. How much you bought it for ??

JUICED

Suggestion: Get a cheap digital multi-meter and test everything out yourself (Battery & Charging System). A fully charged battery should indicate approximately 12.5v (w/ no loads) & a good charging system should be putting out approximately 14.4v (w/ no loads). If your results indicate a bad alternator, there is a write-up/how to on that located in this site. Good luck!

frankd121

iTrader: (1)

You'll still need to get a new battery, when your altenator goes out, you're drawing current directly from the battery, and eventually you kill it. Since your car won't keep on going after you unplug your jumper cables, it means that the battery is not able to hold a charge.

I got my altenator from the dealership for $271 with a core return; autozone didn't have any in stock and I needed to get my car fixed so I coughed up the extra money. Autozone wanted $220 with a core return.

terryKS

I had my alternator rebuilt by a local shop less than a hundred bucks. I have had bad experience witht the rebuilt alternators at the auto shops. If you buy a rebuilt, have it tested before you leave the store! I'd recommend buying new though(not rebuilt) like a Bosch, costs more but like I said its no fun pulling a new alternator off and having to go exchange it! Just my .02!

sloppymax

iTrader: (8)

mine went out at 50k. cost 165 for a reman after core at a local alternator/starter shop. it is not guaranteed that a battery will have to be replaced. if the battery is on its last leg or driving for a considerable time then it is possible. it has been over a year and my battery is still kicking.