how to tell if the alternator has a problem

[hari-bhari]

it seems like ever since i bought the car, ive been having power this power issue. regardless of whether the sound system is on or not, when i roll up my windows, the headlights get dimmer (just a tad). it did it both before and after i put in a new battery, and happens regardless of whether the car is off, idle, or moving. the problem doesnt seem any worse when i'm listening to music, but when the bass hits hard, i do get a little bit of dimming inside as well. also, when i'm rolling the windows up, when they get towards the top, they seem to slow down slightly as if the motor is not getting enough power (happens on both windows). does this mean my alternator is going bad? i only have 50k, and the car is a 2000 model.

[Jai_Jai_Binks]

all your symptoms warrant me to say alternator, go to autozone and get it checked for free

[Sentinel]

I have had this issue since I got my car. It's just a minor annoyance, to me.

[bassthrive]

I have this "problem" as well. 4 ga ground wires in the engine bay helped a little. I am sure doing the big three will help a bit more.

[NeFaRiOuS_SLE]

Could you emphasize a bit on the "big three" you speak of?

[Mole]

^

doing the3


questions ?

haha... jk

yeah.. what is the big 3?

[WunLoudSolara]

The big 3 is adding bigger wire from your ALT to Battery, Battery to Frame, and Battery to Chassis. People mostly use 4 gauge. It allows more current to flow. Just keep your existing wiring as well.