A Volvo 12v battery charging fault can be an excruciating issue to deal with.
When you encounter this problem, you won’t be able to start your car. This is why it is quite inconvenient, particularly when you are in a rush to get to your destination.
So, why does this issue happen and what can you do about it? Let us explore the common reasons for a 12v battery charging fault with the Volvo.
Volvo 12V Battery Charging Fault – Why This Happens
Your battery cycles through numerous charges – often up to thousands – but gets discharged over time. Your car relies on your battery to start, and it also helps to power various accessories when you have your engine off.
This is why it is crucial to have your battery discharged when your engine runs. By doing so, it should be ready for your next start.
Do take note that your battery handles a lot of abuse. As a result, it should be able to give you a stress-free experience when you start your engine. But if you need to replace your old battery, you need to check out the right match for your vehicle to get the best bang for your buck.
Although vehicles have gone through numerous changes over the years, with more complicated components, the process of charging batteries has never changed. It still involves the same process of turning the key in your ignition, which then causes your battery to power your starter motor. Thus, your engine starts.
Once your engine starts, this should cause the alternator to recharge your battery. The belt that drives your alternator converts mechanical power and turns to electrical power. Then this power is what charges your battery, which powers certain components such as your interior lights, radio, headlights, and so much more.
However, there are instances when your car battery may fail to charge. Here are some common reasons behind this:
1. Faulty battery
If you have already jump-started your car, then connect it to the other car for a while to charge your battery, and yet the car still stops once the cables have been removed, the problem is with your battery.
Prior to checking the battery, be sure that the headlights and other battery-operated components have been turned off. Get the keys out of the ignition, as well. In some cases, your key tends to activate some parts of your engine, particularly the fuel pump.
Use a multimeter or voltmeter and set it to the DC current. This way, you should be able to check if your battery is still in a good condition. With the positive and negative lead attached to the right battery terminal, you should make sure that the reading is in 12.5 volts with a plus/minus 0.2 volts. When it has gotten less, it means your battery is not properly charged. Thus, the issue is with your alternator.
2. Poor connections to your battery
In this case, you would want to check your manual to know where your batteries are. Sometimes, you may have corroded battery terminals. In other instances, the connections may have gotten loose, so you have to tighten it. If you have corroded terminals, you need to clean them up with a sandpaper or wire brush. Since the wiring is covered and thick, chances are it is still fine and you would just need to remove the corrosion.
3. Blown Fuse
When you have a blown fuse, your car may be unable to start. There are instances when fuses simply blow without any reason at times. As they get worn and brittle with age, you may not be able to start the car even with a cold engine start.
If you have a blown fuse, it is best to replace it with a new one. It is only a matter of knowing the fusebox’s location and all the fuses to know which one to get and replace. Having an auto electrician may be a better choice since this spares you from figuring out where exactly your fuse box is.
4. Alternator Problems
When you have a malfunctioning alternator, then you won’t be able to start the car. The battery should be fine, yet you would probably encounter a battery charging fault when the alternator is faulty.
If this is the case, be sure to inspect your alternator for loose wiring or damages. Have a specialist do this for you to prevent any injuries that may come with a lack of experience in inspecting your alternator.
5. Battery Drain
In the case of an aftermarket radio, it is possible for the battery to get drained. This is why you need to check if this is the cause in your particular situation. When checking, you need to shut down your engine as you look for any aftermarket devices and auto accessories that may be the problem.
6. Drive belt damage
Next up, it may be possible that the serpentine belt is not in good condition. As this drives your alternator, and your alternator’s speed changes with the engine speed, a frayed or stretched drive belt causes it to lose a grip on your alternator pulley. Thus, it can slip and prevent your alternator from driving quick enough to maintain the required power by your vehicle.
If there are damages to the drive belt, you may have to replace it to rule this issue out when you have a Volvo 12v battery charging fault.
Read More: Reasons Why A Volvo Fan Won’t Turn Off – And What To Do About It
Wrapping Up
A Volvo 12v battery charging fault is a frustrating issue since you rely on the battery to power not only your vehicle’s accessories but the car itself. This is why it is best to get your battery checked, as well as the other components that impact the performance and lifespan of your battery. Conduct any necessary repairs or replacements as needed, and be sure to choose the best battery replacement to ensure your total satisfaction and peace of mind.