is it the alternator problem==--

[jamesmetairie]

2005 (base) Vibe, 180,000 miles. We had it for 10 years. Still has the original alternator in it. Duralast battery is 3 years old.. Vibe was never wrecked and never under water. Today for the first time at 1,000 rpm,s such as sitting at a stop sign, the battery warning light appeared. With out any scan tool,etc. would all agree it sounds like the alternator is failing. Thanks for any advice.

[Jbenrod]

Now I see the additional information here that I was looking for....

Yes that does point toward the alternator, however we've seen alternators last towards 300k miles too (I'm at 235k now). Therefore I'd get a volt meter and check the battery voltage at rest, and with the car running. You should see ~13.5 or more volts when the car is running and for the dash light to be flickering you probably are only producing 12 something.

If you have a battery charger, charge the battery and test again.

If it is the alternator it may only need a new set of brushes but if you don't have time or tools it may not be worth going that route.

Report back with your findings.

[SSizler]

If the light is only on at low rpm and goes off when above idle I would check for belt slippage first.

[jamesmetairie]

there is a very light oil leak down below the belt. but anyway this old alternator needs to go. And I will buy one of them voltage testers that plug into the cigarette lighter socket. Thanks for the suggestions.

[SSizler]

When you replace the alternator it contains the voltage regulator also.
Be careful where you source the replacement alternator from, and confirm the warranty.
Also, I would replace the belt (clean all of the pulleys), and the tensioner if it is still original with 180k miles.
I always enjoy how smooth the 1zz engine sounds with a new belt.

[Jbenrod]

I always enjoy how smooth the 1zz engine sounds with a new belt.

Really? I haven't heard or noticed that before. I have to order some parts soon so you have noticed a change after installing a new belt?

[SSizler]

I probably should have used the word quiet instead of smooth.
If your belt is worn or contaminated it usually makes excessive noise.
If your tensioner is worn it can cause various noises in the belt area.
All 4 of the Vibes I have owned, 140k thru 190k miles, sounded much better after a belt / tensioner change.

[jamesmetairie]

A very good rebuild shop sold me a reconditioned alternator. It is a Denso and cost $130. The tech told me it is completely rebuilt, all the electrical parts including the regulator. A mobile mechanic installed it for $90. It works perfectly now. fingers crossed.

[jamesmetairie]

BTW= the old alternator we pulled out had black numbers marked on the side of it. So maybe it was not the original.