Driving with a faulty alternator

Hints: if the alternator or voltage regulator is not working, you can still continue driving, as the battery can take over as the power source. The battery's charge is sufficient for a long time during the day, because electronic ignition/injection and the electric fuel pump need only a minimum voltage. In addition, the battery is often charged only to about 2/3. Depending on battery capacity, you can drive for at least another 5 hours. In winter, the general weakness of the battery is an added complication. Also, switch on the headlights earlier.

Therefore, the watchword must be to conserve current: do not interrupt the journey unnecessarily, as the starter needs a particularly large amount of current. If possible, start the engine by rolling. Do not switch on the rear window heater, the heater or the radio. Use the windscreen wipers sparingly. At night, drive without high beam and fog lamps. Additionally, disconnect the cables from the alternator and insulate them separately, so that the battery cannot discharge through a faulty alternator or voltage regulator.