It's not always a dead battery or alternator... it could be simpler!

[@aletheiaquest]

You're probably the only mechanic honest enough to do that.

[@2-old-Forthischet]

I have a similar story, but it was a tad more expensive. I had a 1991 Camaro that wouldn't start in the morning. Once jumped, it would run all day long until the next morning. I did the usual of checking the terminals, changing the battery then the alternator even though the VOM readings suggested everything was good. Turns out it was the positive battery cable because in this car, it was a complete wiring harness that went around the engine compartment that contained everything necessary for alternator, starter and battery cable. The cable dropped off in several places in the engine compartment. It was easy enough to replace, just a PITA to troubleshoot.

[@cliffm8112]

Had the same with my Acura..was getting all kinds of weird dash light codes,.cleaned all the leads and terminals it worked like a charm

[@chrisboyd6032]

Bravo for your honesty

[@csflmich2239]

Good points! This is true.

[@stevea1708]

I Have a Hyundai Santa fe 2012. I don't feel confident enough to test the alternator it's in such of an awkward place. But my battery stays at 12V even when the car is running. I'm gonna try your cleaning method. It can't hurt to try!

[@Thefreemans-interesting-music]

Seems like every third battery has dirty terminals. I've even seen new batteries fitted without cleaning the clamps. Everything and I mean everything needs good power. This sort of thing throws idiot codes and starting problems.

[@efrainmedina1952]

Nice..

[@HoweyJR_]

I have a 2013 avenger that won’t stay on after I jump start it I changed the alternator but this time it stayed on for 2/3 sec lights started flickering then it shut off what could this be?

[@RenaissanceDisciple]

@@HoweyJR_ Have you cleaned your terminals?

[@HoweyJR_]

@ from the battery or the top of the engine terminals? The battery is buried in the driver fender

[@RenaissanceDisciple]

@@HoweyJR_ Sounds like a Dodge Journey. But yes, there could be a bad connection at the battery itself. Vehicle shouldn't run if it thinks the battery is disconnected. You might have to get in there and take a look.

[@HoweyJR_]

@ ok I’ll take a look tomorrow during the day & get back to you thanks for the help

[@bert1913]

Load testing battery is not a bad idea

[@RenaissanceDisciple]

@@bert1913 yeah that's always helpful. A new battery is typically better than an alternator replacement

[@irecruitfish7410]

Good man

[@LionsTigersBears]

Bad ground

[@WilliamMurphy-b6v]

How did that engine get so filthy? Submerged? Hurricane wreck?

[@RenaissanceDisciple]

That's actually pretty typical for some vehicles if you never get your engine hay cleaned.

[@csflmich2239]

And honestly probably preferable to the water damage if done carelessly!​@StayConnectedOnEMillion

[@RenaissanceDisciple]

@@csflmich2239 for sure

[@ianhill4585]

If it ain't broke ......

[@mr.nibblenips4231]

And just takes 5 minutes to clean.