Dimming lights in cold weather?

[michoujordan76]

Hi all,

As far as I know my battery is fine- my Camry doesn't have any problem turning over. But after a few minutes of driving, once the engine is warmed up, the accessories tend to run slow. The dash lights are a little dim and the blower slow at idle. When I accelerate I can see the lights get brighter and the blower speed increases too.

For now, it's not really a big deal but I'd like to figure out what it could be before the real cold sets in.

Thanks for your help.

P.S. The battery terminals are clean...

[Tommy]

get the battery and altenator tested. both free services at most car parts places.

[Mike Gerber]

If you are noticing this at idle, this sounds normal. When you accelerate or rev the engine a bit in neutral, the alternator spins faster, thus generating more current. I wouldn't be too concerned, but have the alternator and battery checked out as Tommy suggested, just for peace of mind.

Mike

[DoubleEdgedWomb]

I can't say for sure on a newer car, but on my old Bug the same thing happens when it's cold outside. Since it's carbureted and not quite tuned right, the idle slows down when it's cold and the poor little 30-plus-year-old alternator can't quite keep up with the load. In my case, it's just a function of a slower idle. Seems like it's the same for you, as the problem goes away when you accelerate.