Camaro and Firebird: Why is My Battery Not Charging?
If your battery in the Camaro or Firebird isn't charging, it could be something else causing the issue. Read on to learn how to diagnose it.
This article applies to the Camaro or Firebird (1996-2002).
Sometimes you could get blamed for something you didn't do. In this scenario, sometimes your Camaro or Firebird's battery could get blamed for not holding a charge, even though it's another component that is causing the issue. If your battery keeps dying, make sure you read this article before purchasing a new one. This guide will go over all the things that can go wrong with the battery, and cause your battery to die. Read on to learn how to diagnose this issue.
Materials Needed
- Jumper cable
- Voltmeter
- Wrench
- Baking soda and water
Step 1 – Inspect battery terminals
They could be corroded.
The battery terminals play a huge role in both the battery sending current to the starter so the car starts, and the alternator sending current to the battery so the battery charges. If your battery terminals are corroded, remove them using your wrench, then clean them with baking soda and water. You want to make sure there is no corrosion between the metal, which ensures the current goes through easily.
If your battery terminals are clean, proceed to Step 2.
Step 2 – Check the alternator
It could be faulty.
The alternator is responsible for charging the battery. It is connected to your drive belt, so once the engine starts rotating, the alternator starts charging the battery. If the alternator goes bad, the battery could only work for a few minutes until it dies again. Turn the car on; you may need to jump start it, then step on the gas and watch the headlight. If it fades, then your alternator may be bad. Then, sniff around the alternator; if you smell a burning scent, then your alternator is bad. Finally, for the ultimate test, start your car, then remove the negative (black) battery terminal while the car is on, and if the car stalls, then your alternator isn't working.
If the alternator is working properly, proceed to Step 3.
Step 3 – Check the battery
It could be faulty.
The best way to check the battery is to fully charge it, which you can do that for free at most auto part stores, then see if it keeps the charge. You can use your voltmeter to check its voltage at any time. Put the red prove on the positive battery terminal, and the black probe on the negative battery terminal, then read the voltage. A healthy battery should read between 12.4 and 12.7 volts; if it keeps getting lower, then you may need a new battery.
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