2004 Escape Battery Light Issue

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Mar 24, 2014 | 02:21 PM

tjwozer

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Joined: Mar 2014

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2004 Escape Battery Light Issue

Over the past few days the battery light has been flickering and at times staying on. In using the gauge cluster diagnostics, I am getting 12.4 engine off and 13.8 - 14.0 with the engine running.

Even when I'm driving with the battery warning light on I still get a consistent 13.8 - 14.0 (and I do have the headlights on, the A/C running, radio, etc).

Kind of scratching my head on this issue since it appears the alternator and battery are working correctly.

Any possible suggestions would be appreciated.

Mar 26, 2014 | 07:31 AM

tomw

Logistics Pro

Joined: Jan 2002

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From: suburban atlanta

Check the regulator. It may provide 'ground' to the signal light so it will glow. If that circuit in the regulator is flaky, it may be grounding at the wrong time. The voltages produced seem ok to me. I don't know if the regulator is integral with the alternator, but would not be surprised. Understand that the R&R process is involved, requiring removal of the passenger side drive axle, and contortions... so, be warned if it is built in.
tom

May 31, 2014 | 07:51 AM

WB4IUY

Mountain Pass

Joined: May 2014

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Had the same issue on mine, was the alternator. It seems it can partially fail and still produce some charging current. I notice a bit of alternator whine in my CD player at the same time, very low level. Mine charges at about 14.5 with a good alternator, was about the same as yours when it started to fail.