Hello everyone,

I know there are several threads about Escape alternators and batteries but I think my problem is a little different.

Occasionally while driving, the battery light comes on on my 2006 Ford Escape V6 4wd (~85,000 miles). I did the diagnostic test mentioned where you get the ODO to display the voltage. The voltage indicated while the battery light is on is 13.7 ~ 14.3; even with everything possible turned on such as lights, defrost, fan, AC, seat heaters, wipers, etc. Everything electrical appears to be functioning properly.

Curiously, the light will appear when cruising on the highway and if I release the gas pedal (RPM's drop) the light turns off.

The battery and alternator were replaced approximately 1 year ago at a Ford dealership because of a no charge condition and the light issue has been occuring ever since.

Any ideas? Damaged sensor for voltage perhaps? I don't want to ignore it since the vehicle is mostly driven by my wife and I don't want her to end up stranded somewhere.

 

Anything under 14V would be a problem.

 

Looking at the results again, the voltage is flickering rapidly from 13.7 to 14.3 volts. The headlights are flickering when this is occuring as well. Is that a sign of a defective alternator?

 

Yup! I see this all the time driving down the road, people look like they're driving to a rave.

 

I would venture they are flickering because some AC current is getting past the diodes, or the DC voltage is very uneven. Either way, I think the alternator needs some work. If you put a VOM on the battery, you may see the flickering voltage. I'd try it in alternating and direct current modes. If you are adventurous, and have access to a good soldering iron, you may be able to replace the diode bridge, or, get another alternator.
tom