HI all this is my first post, Im sure it wont be my last . I love this car, but realized that my mini was no longer charging its battery, I stuck a VOM on it and read, like 10V when it was running.

I replaced the alternator, thats the first thing I thought of and still no joy. Still the battery light is lit and the battery doesnt charge, does anyone know more about the charging system that could suggest something else that could be wrong. I was SO sure that the new alternator would fix it, but no dice.

I have also verified both wires from the little gang plug to the harness thing attached to the little block was ok. So not really sure what my next step is besides put the old alternator back in it and tow it to the mini dealer.

anyone with thoughts on what else could be wrong would be a great help.

thanks
Wayne

 

Welcome, Wayne. How old is the battery?

 

thanks! this seems like a cool group from all that I have been reading so far. The battery is new, 7/09

thanks,
Wayne

 

The only other thing I can think of is to check the grounding strap. On the S it is on the left side of the engine bay (big black cable). Mine broke and the car wouldn't even start.

 

yeah, its definately good, I had to bend it a bit to allow for the tensioner to be let off.

thanks,
Wayne

 

Check the jump start stud under the hood. If it is loose or needs cleaned it will affect both voltage reads and charging. It's near the firewall on the left side of the car.

 

Thanks, Ill check that out tomorrow, is there a way to check with a VOM if the alternator is actually putting out the voltage?

I suppose its possible that the new alternator could be bad, its a remanufactured one.

Wayne