How can I test the voltage of the battery cables on a 2002 Ford F150?

205

Asked by Dustin Jan 31, 2014 at 12:22 PM

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I want to try and find the problem with the charging system on a 2002 Ford F150. I'll be testing voltage with a volt meter. If you
could please help me with advice that would be perfect.

Thanks

2 Answers

102,575

Put a voltage meter on the HOT terminal of your alternator. You should be getting a reading of 14-14.5 volts. If you are not getting that reading, your brushes in your alternator are gone, or the voltage regulator is bad. Make sure that your battery is fairly new. If your battery is over 5 years old, it may be not holding a charge due to age.

199,785

Have your meter set to dc voltage put the red(+) lead on positive of battery or alternator. Put the black(-) lead on either the negative battery post or to frame .

Your Answer:

Own this car?

Share your experience with others.

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    244,970
  • #2
    Rowefast
    Reputation
    183,550
  • #3
    dandyoun
    Reputation
    169,260
View All

Know more, shop wisely

Search

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.