Potential car battery problem

Stover

So I own a car and drive it often.

For the past month or so, when I take the car above 3500 RPM, the battery light started to flicker. I didn't think much of it because the only time the engine does this is when the automatic transmission freaks out and doesn't shift. So I go on happily.

Now for the past day or so, the battery light starts randomly flickering between 2300 and 2500 RPM, which is worrying because that's right about where I sit while driving on the highway.

Dear Penny Arcade, please fix my car.

(hugs and kisses)

RUNN1NGMAN

You have an issue with your electrical system, but you would have to have someone look at it to determine exactly what. If it's happening at certain RPMs, it could be an alternator issue and your alternator is only affected (for whatever reason) when it's turning at certain speeds.

pacbowl

My car is doing the exact same thing at 3500+ rpm, usually when downshifting into passing gear. I mentioned it to my father, who has worked on cars for the past 40+ years and he suggested checking the tension on the serpentine belt. At higher rpms it could be slipping on the alternator. I haven't checked mine out yet, so I'm curious to see if that's it. If you fix it, lemme know what it was. Thanks