Would you ever replace both the battery and starter at the same time? How do you know it's not the alternator?

Question

autozone said it wasn't the battery or starter, but dealership said both needed to be replaced. I also have been having problems with light on my shifter not showing? Is this related to the alternator perhaps?

Answer 1

I don't know what the symptoms or make/model are but all of these things can be tested.  How about some more info?

Answer 2

Well, sounds like a wiring problem. I would check the connection to ground on the engine block, I would replace that wire. A lot of times, if a car is jumped a lot or through wear and tear that wire gets frayed and does not carry the large amount of current that it should.  

Answer 3

Not much info. here as to what the problem is or the symptoms. The first bit of advice is stay away from dealers. The next thing I would do is get a battery brush at Auto Zone and clean the battery terminals and posts till they SHINE. Then come back if you still have problems and give a bit more info.

NEVER replace any part till you KNOW the problem.

Answer 4

You did not say what symptoms you had as to why starter, battery, or alternator were suspected of anything.

But if you were having starting issues and the light on your shifter, it could be related.  Automatic transmissions have a switch that only lets you start the vehicle in park or neutral, but without knowing what make/model/year car it may be hard for anyone to tell if the same switch mechanism works the lights for lever position.

Answer 5

the light problem your having is just a blown bulb probably ,have the alternator tested along with the battery ,auto zone or advance either one will do this for free then you,ll know, i wouldnt go buying parts for anything until i knew they was bad or needed replacing,good luck.