Most batteries have a date on them. It should give you an idea on how old it is. If you have an advance auto parts store or autozone, they should be able to check the status of your battery. Don't need to buy a voltmeter if u do. That's to check any doubts you have on whether your battery is good or bad

 

Auto zone has machine that tests both your battery and alternator. I would guess that your battery is just dead. When my alternator went out on my 91 toyota celica, the car totally broke down while driving. I don't think its possible to drive a car with a broken alternator.

 

X2
Levi

 

A fully charged "12v" battery should measure 12.7v (over 12.6v) after being fully charged and sitting for 24 hours. If you can't let it sit that long try to measure it at after at least overnight before checking the voltage.


Voltage while charging from the alternator should be at least 13.7v to 14.2v.

Measuring without letting the battery "rest" will show the surface charge. Will look good but letting it settle 24 (12) hours will give a true reading.

-- Chuck

 

Final Results:

Went to AutoZone and tested battery, it wasn't accepting the alternator's charge. All alternator tests passed with perfect scores.

Replaced with a Duralast battery -- and she started right up!

Prolly got worked over on a $150 battery, but at least everything is fixed!

 

Car batteries are not designed to be completely discharged (unlike deep cycle batteries). You really only get a few and the battery is toast. And they just wear out like everything else.

Stuff like the radio memory and keyless entry siphon power from the battery even when the key of Off. A couple of weeks, maybe three will severely deplete the battery even with these tiny draws. Trickle charger works well if the car will be out of service for more than three weeks.

-- Chuck

 

Now enjoy the summer!
Levi