Freakiefriday420

I have a 01 maxima that was passed down to me in rough shape... The most recent problem is the battery being drained. I had the battery tested, and mind u. I just had it replace by Wal-Mart this past monday. On tues leaving work and heading to my second job, I wanted to see if everything was working right and charging the battery, so i turned on the ac... After, 10 or 15mins at most. The check engine light came on, so i shut off the ac and realized the battery is not being charged. Is my thinking, went to auto-zone too test the battery and it was at 61%. They wouldn't test the alternator, cause the battery being to low to test it. made to work and they didn't need me after all. Left and headed too the store and upon leaving the car wouldn't start. The auto zone guy said "it can be the wiring being bad or the alternator" i did replace the alternator longest 3weeks ago. Could be bad alternator, or the wiring to the charging system?? No clue, i have knowledge of cars but not very experienced. Could use a professional opinion...

MichMaxFan

Check for engine codes.
Give the battery a full charge.
Thoroughly clean the terminals.

Check battery voltage prior to starting car.
Check voltage while car us running.

Post your answers. Someone can then better help you.

TallTom

Alternators on these cars are finicky. They go through cheapo brands like water.

Thrillho

If the car was in a rough shape, I'd suggest taking out the airbox assembly and the battery, cleaning up the grounds with a wire brush and see if that makes a difference. Maybe run a grounding kit if you can. Don't mind the alt. To pos. Connection for now unless you can get your hands on a proper inline fuse holder with a 120a fuse. Also if you're absolutely sure you need to replace the alternator, try to replace the starter along with it as a precaution unless the starter was replaced recently.

If you need a good brand of aftermarket alternator, Wilson is a very good one that I've found so far.