Alternator problem or not?

Question

So my car is an 04 CIvic SiR and I have noticed something that bothers me. When I am driving at night and I have everything going ie:touch screen nav, blue tooth connection sterio with amp and sub, headlights, fan etc... there is a lot of electrical demand and I notice that some of the cars lights fade a little during each pounding of the sub. Does this mean my alternator is going to fail or that there is just too much load for it to handle completely? Should I consider a capacitor?

Answer 1

yeah i think its the voltage regulator inside the alternator,i would definately get a digital stiffening capacator

Answer 2

Google this and read about it "the big three upgrade" do this to your car and solve all your problems.

Answer 3

A capacitor isn't really the answer. It will only put more stain on the alternator.

A big 3 upgrade would definitely help. It should be done ASAP. But, it wouldn't change the fact that your alternator only puts out 80 amps.

The only way to really fix your problem would be to replace the stock alternator with a high output unit. I would recommend 100 amps or more. You can get good quality alternators here. http://www.ohiogen.com/ and here http://www.excessiveamperage.com/

Answer 4

you will damage your cars electrical system if you keep it up. you are asking too much from your cars electrical system by trying to pull too much current from your alternator and battery. also the amp power wires may not be the proper thickness(gauge) causing voltage drop which can damage the amp. a cap may be a start but i recomend professional advice. remember, your honda's warranty won't cover damage caused by aftermarket accessories installed in your car. good luck.

Answer 5

No need for a cap......Your altanator wasn't designed for all that power to be drawn from it...... all that work on the altanator will shorten the life of it by wearing th brushes down....you have to buy a new altanator with higher amp's to with stand the demand....try ebay for a cheap remanfactured altanator....

Good luck friend

Answer 6

My son just had that very same problem.  His Alternator went out because of all the electrical current running.   He wants a capacitor so that he won't blow his alternator out again.  Yes.  consider getting you one before you have to replace your alternator.  Good Idea!