2016 Tundra Alternator Issue?

Started the truck earlier to head to town and noticed my battery light was on. Pretty sure the battery that’s in it was the original battery so thought it needs replaced anyway. On the way I notice the voltage meter dropping then every light (check engine, ABS, brake control, every light known to man) comes on. Right after that power starts failing and then it died. Luckily was on a small road at a nice pull off. Anyway, got it towed to my shop. Am I right in thinking it’s a bad alternator?

 

Given the conditions, it definitely seems like a bad alternator. Typically I like to load test the alternator by allowing the engine to idle and turning on as many electrical loads as possible (a/c to the max, high beams on, radio on, etc.) Voltage should remain around 13-14v at the battery with all loads on. If this isn't the case then you definitely have a charging issue. After that I load test the battery with a handheld tester to ensure the alternator didn't kill it and replace as needed. Note: I have also seen the throttle plate being too dirty and resulting in the engine idle to drop causing the alternator to not spin enough thus not charging. Would recommend trying that first since it doesn't cost anything to clean.

 

Thanks! Will check the throttle plate. If it does end up being the alternator I’m not going to tackle that myself. I’ve got a good local guy that I trust. Never have had to an alternator before, what’s a ball park estimate on costs at a non dealership shop?

 

Sounds like your alternator brushes are worn out. $20 part.

 

Make sure your battery is good before you do anything.

 

For sure, going to replace it regardless.

 

It was the alternator. Replaced it and battery. A couple of times since then right after the truck is started there is a wining sound, I’m guessing maybe the serpentine belt? It goes away after 4-5 seconds. Mechanic said some grease may have gotten on the belt but shouldn’t be an issue. Is that sound advice?

 

After looking it over really well (this all happened in the middle of relocation/moving) it looks like the serpentine belt isn’t routed the right way. Was very suprised, I’m a novice but I assumed they only “fit” one way. Is this a semi-common issue?

 

NO. Not common. Because people follow the very simple serpentine belt routing diagram. Find it. Then get your flashlight, reading glasses and get your schnoz down in there and check your routing.