Alternator or Battery?

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SHAREALLICU
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Hi I have a 1985 Jetta, 4 cylinder, I got used and the battery has been dead when need to head out. when I recharge it to go to the store, It is dead as soon as I try to head back home (about 30minutes to an hour later). How do I tell if it is an Alternator problem or an old battery?
Sep 13, 2007 at 9:47 PM
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WRENCH
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There are many auto parts stores that offer free charging system checks, just drive the car there and they can test battery and alt. Or you can check with a volt meter how many volts does the battery have with car off and then check again after you start it (running). 12 volt systems need 12 volts at the battery and 14 or 15 volts when running, also check your battery cables and connections make sure there clean and tight.
Sep 13, 2007 at 10:27 PM
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BMRFIXIT
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Hello there
now if you give the battery a jump
the car start you go to the store no problem
that’s tells me the alternator may be OK
if you can drive the car after a jump with no problem
but you can not start after a good run that’s means the battery not holding the charge
and you need a battery
plus the battery is a lot cheaper to replace than an alternator

good luck
Sep 13, 2007 at 10:55 PM
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SHAREALLICU
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Thank you both very much (Bmrfixit and Wrench) for the advise - Both of you were extremely helpful!!

Thank you, and God Bless,
Sep 14, 2007 at 11:12 AM