Voltage question

[JulietTangoAlpha]

While driving, my check gauges light came on and I noticed my voltage was higher than usual. Something like 17 I'd say and as I decrease in speed and idle it drops back down to 14 volts. Anyone know what the issue can be?


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[Jerry Bransford]

That is often caused by a bad/dirty/loose/corroded battery connection. The voltage regulator can't get a good reading on the battery's voltage when any of those conditions exist so it keeps raising the alternator's output voltage trying to overcome it.

Remove both battery connections and clean the battery posts and the inside of the battery connectors with a wire brush. A battery brush like this sells for $4 or so and makes the job easy.

 

[Mike_H]

Might also be the regulator in the Alternator...Do as Jerry suggested first, as he's probably right. If that doesn't fix it, you should have your alternator checked.