1999 Hyundai Sonata Charging and E-Brake light coming on an

1999 HYUNDAI SONATA
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TRONSTER
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Electrical problem
1999 Hyundai Sonata 6 cyl Front Wheel Drive Automatic 300K miles
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Trying to see if anyone else has seen both dash lights come on and off at same time. Mechanic will certainly say alternator but I am thinking it could be a short. I notice no drain on battery as indicated by continued starting and operation for about 3 days. Lights sometimes come on at sart and others times not. Also comes on during idling sometimes preceeded by a click sound. Any thoughts?
Jun 12, 2008 at 8:39 AM
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KHLOW2008
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Hi Tronster,

It could be the alternator telling you that it is about to fail.

It can also be some wiring or relay.

When the light comes on, check the charging voltage (13.5 to 14.5 v) to confirm that it is good.
Jun 12, 2008 at 9:18 AM
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TRONSTER
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See subject
Jun 12, 2008 at 9:33 AM
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TRONSTER
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Voltage check indicates 12.3, I assume that this means the battery is starting to drain. Difficult to get to alternator to check. Its odd that the light does not come on all the time??? Thanks for your info either way - maybe time for a new puppy lol
Jun 12, 2008 at 10:54 AM
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KHLOW2008
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Hi Tronster,

If the voltage is 12.3 with engine on, definetely the alternator is not charging.

The light dose not come on all the time because if it is the carbons wearing out, there might still be partial contact. Some vibration (tappiing with a hammer)to the alternator might get a little more mileage of the alternator.

If you can replace the carbons, maybe that is just what is required.
Jun 12, 2008 at 12:32 PM