is it my alternator?

20

Asked by countryman45 Mar 22, 2012 at 10:10 PM about the 2002 Chevrolet Cavalier Sedan FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

my friend and i were driving in his 2002 chevy cavalier and we pulled into a parking lot and the car just died on us we tried jump starting the car the dash would light up for a second and thats it it would not start so today we thought it might be the battery so we charged it it was fine but when we turned the key the car would try to start but not turn over so we were wondering if it is the alternater and if so how much do they cost?

2 Answers

115

Was the battery that you tried putting into it charged? they are usually not when you buy them. If jumping the car didn't work it probably isn't the alternator. Post more details if you would like more diagnostic help.

1 people found this helpful.
24,475

I would start with battery. Use a battery tester. Next check battery connections also check battery post connector on end of battery wires. You can buy a battery voltage indicator that plugs into cigarette lighter. You should have over 12.3 volts with car not running and somewhere around 14 with car running.

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    John Saffrahn
    Reputation
    4,830
  • #2
    dandyoun
    Reputation
    1,990
  • #3
    mbar1
    Reputation
    1,670
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Chevrolet Corvette
31 Great Deals out of 738 listings starting at $10,989
Used Chevrolet Camaro
13 Great Deals out of 468 listings starting at $11,749
Used Chevrolet S-10
2 listings
Used Chevrolet Silverado 1500
214 Great Deals out of 8,009 listings starting at $1,500
Used Ford Mustang
37 Great Deals out of 1,639 listings starting at $8,800
Used Honda Civic
198 Great Deals out of 4,034 listings starting at $440
Used Toyota Camry
46 Great Deals out of 1,149 listings starting at $2,500

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.