1997 Nissan Maxima GLE - Electrical problem. Stalled.

[luedemann]

Just bought the car used. It is fully loaded with 248 000km. About 15km's out of the city the radio would not turn up, it would work just not turn up - no sound. Then the cruise kicked off, the abs light came on, airbag light came on, car started stuttering but still running, and then I pulled over and it just died. It would not turn over but still had minimal power for hazards, etc. Any ideas? I did not check anything yet. The battery light was on prior to all of this. Any input would help! Thanks

[the converted]

I'd give the battery a charge, get it started, and then check the voltage at the battery to see if the alternator is charging.

[luedemann]

Well the dealer I bought it from had it towed back to the shop for me. How much is it to rebuilt an alternator and put it back in? Also, is it possible that it is the timing chain?

[MTZI30]

Ya really sounds like alternator. All those lights prolly came on due to low voltage. Its cool they towed that car back for you tho and didnt just say TS. Seriosuly doubt its the timing chain.

[audtatious]

Rebuilt alternators are not very expensive. They can be somewhat of a challenge to replace in a Maxima tho due to their location.

[luedemann]

Well that is good, then! Any other ideas of what else could be the problem if it is not indeed the alternator?

[audtatious]

Alternator or battery are the two I would look at first. Check and see if you are getting over 13.5v at the battery when the car is running. If not, probably a alternator. I have had the battery in my Maxima show 13v but still not work properly because it could not provide the amps needed.