lights are dim when car starts

[808faded]

well when i first start my car all the lights are dim and then i dont know why or how but the lights get bright after a while, and i have low rpm at start up. i did change my alternator which i did twice since the first alternator was defective. i am using the same battery which i overcharged because of the first alteranator that installed, could that be the problem? i cant afford my car not working right now so i need all the help i can get.

if you have any questions that will help to solve the problem just let me know. thx
Modified by 808faded at 5:30 AM 7/27/2008

[Slipstream]

Sounds like the battery is on it's way out. Take it to autozone or advanced and have them test it. Or, if you have a multimeter, you can test it yourself.

[ashoe]

Second the battery being on the way out. Don't drive it anywhere you don't want to have to get a jump! I had a battery do this and it was only another day or so before it died completely. The multimeter test is good, but they can test your battery's cold cranking amps at autozone or napa which is allot better to tell if it really is your battery.

[808faded]

ok thx u guys. was thinking it could be battery but i just wanted to get other opinions will change the battery probably 2day. thx

[xekushnr]

If the problem isnt solved yet, I suppose it could also be the voltage regulator. Just something to keep in mind. Also, I would have the alternator tested just in case. Alternators, like starters, commonly have problems right out of the box.

[qksilver1]

Had the same problem, damn battery! Walmart has the best prices and 2 year free replacement. Keep in mind there are only a few companies that make batteries, not that much difference between most.

[808faded]

im planning on checking the voltage regulator next cuz i put a second battery in and its still doing it. although the battery i put in might be bad to im gonna head down to napa and see if they can check it.

but i have 2 questions 1st one is dumb, but the voltage regulator is located inside the fender on the passenger side right?2nd question if i turn the car on and disconnect the negative terminal from the battery is the car supposed to still be running? i did that and car turned off, so could be alternator, but funny how i had 2 brand new alternators and they both were bad is there any sites where i can buy aftermakert alternators that would last long

[khooper]

if i'm not mistaken it is located at Front passenger side ( left ) of the engine compartment, but you can correct me if i'm wrong.

If it were your alternator you battery light would have been on a lot longer. I would start with a battery. The fact that it did come on at the end is due to the battery's "state of health" not being enough to take back any charge from the alternator. Replace the battery first and then see what happens.

[808faded]

wow i never thought about it like that maybe it just is my battery i put in, im planning on going to napa n see if they can check my battery and alternator and then just go buy a new battery.