My buddy who just replaced my passenger side stabilizer link noticed that sometimes when I shift from park to drive, or to reverse, the light illuminating what gear your in is a little faded, or slow to change. He also pointed out that when I turn my lights on, then off and put my touchscreen LCD radio on, and turn the headlights back on, the screen dims a little. He also said that when you have the music turned down and you hear whining that that also indicates a new alternator soon. I can hear static and whining slightly especially when I give it gas if my ipod setting is on but paused at a loud volume. Are there any other sure indicators that I need a new alternator? Am I being taken for a ride?

He also replaced my evap purge canister and evap purge shut-off valve. The "check engine" light did not immediately turn off upon having the new parts installed, and he disconnected the battery and told me that it takes 30-50 miles before the sensor can recognize the improvement in gas intake. So far I've driven about 30 miles and the light has not come back on yet. I guess only time can tell, but I'd like some insight to help me prepare for what I might need to do. Thanks in advance everyone.

 

I'd have the system tested, many stores will do this for free.

Also suggest that you check/clean the cable ends and be sure they are clean and tight. Follow the ground cable and check/clean the points where it connects to the body and where it connects to the trans/engine.

 

If you pull up to a red light or stop sign at night does your lights dim them when you give it gas they brighten up? Best way is go to a auto store like poorman said and have them test it for free

 

Oh I didn't know you could have alternators checked like you can check an engine error code. How about the evap situation? Is that truth?

 

The EVAP stuff is sorta generally true, but it's hard to be specific without knowing what year/model/engine you have.

Usually, there's a set of conditions that have to be met for the CEL to set or clear. It's not as simple as how many miles.