Is my alternator going? symptoms inside

[IIv SHaDoW vII]

Idle sometimes drops/chokes when rolling up power windows. It never dies but I notice the idle change. Other than that it never has a problem starting or driving. I know starting is the batteries job but since the alternator charges the battery I figured I would mention that it never has trouble starting. Although the battery is less than 3 months old.. so.. idk.

 

[TuRBoTaLooN]

Go to Advanced Auto or Autozone as they can test the battery and alternator for free. Then you can tell for sure.

 

[mans1ay3r]

I had a similar problem, except it wasn't just the power windows, my headlights and dashlights would pulsate as well. It could be bad ground? I couldnt tell what was causing what, and when I'd take it to the shop, it was one of those things where it wouldn't happen when I'm there! Eventually it got worse and was easy to point out, and I had bad ground and needed a new alternator. But it was still under warranty ### I just got the car then..

 

[Talon64]

I just had a similar problem. i got a new alternator and it stopped. i have a cobra rador detector and i noticed at idle my rador detector would shut off because it wasn't charging but when i drove it would charge way to much. 15v so i got a new alternator and everything is fine. My car drives a lot better. First get it checked out at auto parts store.

 

[turbodsm18]

Start your car and check the voltage of the battery with a volt meter. Easiest way to check

 

[IIv SHaDoW vII]

I posted this before I got the car back guys, I did everything you told me to.. took it up there and I was right, the diode? was bad in the alternator which he also explained that that was the whirling noise I heard.. I thought it was my wheel bearing or even worse tranny.. so Im happy right now. Thanks for the help though everyone.