Battery Died
#16
Am I reading from your printout that the alternator is putting out around 13.67? I'm not sure what the average LS430 alternator puts out, but closer to 14 or slightly higher is desirable. If your alternator is not putting out enough to keep the battery close to fully charged on a regular basis, it could also contribute to shortening the life of the battery.
Last edited by Bocatrip; 06-02-14 at 07:58 PM.
#18
My alternator puts out 13.3 Volts regardless of engine speed. It's been this way since I purchased it 4 years ago. I played it safe and changed the battery about 3 years ago. I never had a problem with starting and drive 90% city with stop and go. So far so good. I don't believe a rebuilt alternator is a big deal if needed anyway.
#19
Intermediate
Thread Starter
The 13.67V was at idle. I'll have it checked out at 2000RPM when I take it on for servicing soon.
My kid left the rear vanity mirror (with light) open overnight, and the new battery still started the car the next day.
Consumer Reports Nov 2013 issue had an article on car batteries. They say Reserve Capacity (how long battery can power things from a full charge) is the thing to keep in mind when looking for a car battery.
CCA only important for very cold climates (not me), and the other thing is Life Expectancy of the battery.
Sent from an Android device using IB Automotive Group forum reader.
My kid left the rear vanity mirror (with light) open overnight, and the new battery still started the car the next day.
Consumer Reports Nov 2013 issue had an article on car batteries. They say Reserve Capacity (how long battery can power things from a full charge) is the thing to keep in mind when looking for a car battery.
CCA only important for very cold climates (not me), and the other thing is Life Expectancy of the battery.
Sent from an Android device using IB Automotive Group forum reader.
#21
Intermediate
Thread Starter
Sent from an Android device using IB Automotive Group forum reader.
#22
I will second the recommendation for the Optima. I put one in our Sienna 6 years ago and have been very happy with it. I did this because this car does not shut off battery power when interior lights are left on. I have drained this battery down at least 10 times and it still is almost as good as new. Expensive up front but worth the money in the long run.
Last edited by walleyeman; 06-11-14 at 09:49 AM. Reason: spell error
#23
#24
I'd give a strong recommendation to the Sears Diehard Platinum AGM battery. Super large Reserve Capacity. They also go on sale a few times a year with a gracious return/replacement policy.
I just checked my battery. It's a Lexus OEM battery that was replaced in 2012 (have an 2005). My water levels were low, so be sure to check your water levels if you have a maintenance required battery.
I just checked my battery. It's a Lexus OEM battery that was replaced in 2012 (have an 2005). My water levels were low, so be sure to check your water levels if you have a maintenance required battery.
#25
Moderator
Unless the battery is totally sealed it makes good sense to pry open the cell covers every 6 months or so and fill any low cells back up to fill line with distilled water. Your battery will last a lot longer. Despite marketing and advertising almost every car battery sold today is "low maintenance" as opposed to "no maintenance" meaning you still have to check water levels in the cells periodically.
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