Camry problems

[mactoyota]

I'm a long time Toyota lover and recently was given a 1988 Camry, 4cyl AOD with 190,000 miles. Since I have had it the charge and brake light come on while driving, I have heard that this means it needs an alternator? Anyone know about that? It also has the push button heat controls, which for a ver good reason Toyota only used for that year! However mine will not let hot water through the control valve and the part is a joke to buy new $947! SO if anyone knows where I can get a good used one, lay it on me. It also has pretty good oil leak, any suggestions on where it might be coming from? Nothing visible in front of the engine, so I figure it must be coming from the back side of the head. I'm new to this so go easy

[Kiwi-Corolla]

to the community!

Sorry to hear about the problems you're having with your Camry. Yes, generally when the battery and charge light come on it's a sign of a problem with the alternator, however there are a few things you can check before spending money on buying a new one. Make sure that the alternator belt is tensioned correctly and isn't worn. Then check that the wiring harness for the alternator is secured tightly, and not burnt or cut in any way. If everything checks out ok then it's time to test it with a multimeter.

With the engine off, connect the multimeter to the battery terminals and make sure you have at least 12 volts. Now start the engine and check the battery voltage again. It should be between 13.5 to 15.1 volts. Now turn on the headlights. The voltage should drop and then come back up if the charging system is working properly.

I'd recommend taking the car to an auto electrician and getting the problem professionally diagnosed. Most places do the diagnosis for free. They have all the right equipment to do proper tests (such as an amperage output test) on the charging system.

Good luck, and enjoy the forums!

[TrailDust]

Hello, and welcome to Toyota Nation!