02 Echo Assistance - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

peijay · 03-22-2008, 06:22 PM

Around Tuesday of last week, I've been told my car is having a few problems (as I was away on course.)

The battery light stays on now, and while I was driving it, after getting back, once the red tempurator light started to flash. We tried cleaning the post on the battery, still nothing; and it started to take even longer to kick up, the last time almost was a painful groan. I went to Canadian Tire and got a new battery (as I was still using the old one), attached it and light still stays on but started up fine. I tried the windshield wiper, which goes as slow, even if it's on the fast setting.

Since it's the long weekend, and I've got 2 hours of driving to do to get home, I'm hoping it's nothing serious. Anyone experience this or have any idea what it sounds like?

ReTread · 03-23-2008, 05:45 AM

It sounds to me like your alternator (that charges the battery) is not functioning or else the belt driving it is slipping or missing. You are essentially running on the battery which will work for a while, but then become discharged. Possible reason for the temp light to come on is that it is an electric cooling fan and is not getting enough current to work properly.

A two hour drive would be risky. Not entirely sure about the Echo, but many vehicles will not start or run at all if a sensor detects a low voltage from the battery.

peijay · 03-23-2008, 09:43 AM

I really hope it's not the alternator. Sadly, the drive isn't optional, so I may end up playing it by ear and letting it rest every 30 minutes or so. Do you think that would help?

ReTread · 03-23-2008, 05:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by peijay

I really hope it's not the alternator. Sadly, the drive isn't optional, so I may end up playing it by ear and letting it rest every 30 minutes or so. Do you think that would help?

Letting it rest won't charge the battery. Tips to squeak by might include disconnecting the head lights (so daytime running lights won't drain battery) not using heater fan or other electrical accessories. Carry a couple of fully charged batteries to change enroute? Engine needs current as does your electric fuel pump.

Is someone handy with a volt meter who knows how to check current from alternator to battery? Make sure all connectors are tight and not corroded. (disconnect battery before checking wiring harness connections) If you are getting some charge, this might help.