2005 Vibe with 194k miles
Had to get a jump start today and drove to the part shop to test what they could. Battery tested fine but the 5 month old alternator didn't pass. Guy said that the error msg. said the voltage regulator wasn't working. I got a new alternator as it was under warranty and installed it.
Several hours later, the battery light comes on. I drive back to the part store and the alternator and battery test fine. I try to start the car to test the starter and it won't start. A jump from the store and it starts right up.
The positive terminal was nearly beoken off so I knew the contact was poor. I replaced the terminal, get a jump, and drive home. At home I replace the terminal. Car starts but idles really low; around 500 rpm. Voltage across the terminals is only showing 12.7V at that idle speed. Daytime running lights now won't turn on either.
I'll check the fuses when its daylight. I put the battery on a trickle charger so I hopefully have enough juice in the morning to take the kids to school.
Any ideas what I should pursue next if there is a problem?