If your car battery is too high, it can have catastrophic consequences for your car. In this article, not only are you going to find out how high voltage is too high, you’ll also learn what causes it, and most importantly what to do about it!
So keep reading to find out everything you need to know!
What Voltage Is Too High For A Car Battery?
If your car battery is reading more than 15 volts, then it’s currently too high. Car batteries should not exceed 14.8 volts in normal operating conditions and should remain between 13.7 and 14.8 volts at all times. So car batteries that read over 15 volts could be overcharging, which can cause excessive heat and damage the battery itself.
What Happens If Car Battery Voltage Is Too High?
Having a car battery voltage too high can cause serious damage to the battery and other electrical components in your vehicle. When the voltage exceeds 14.8 volts, it can cause an overcharging situation which will generate excess heat and gasses, leading to acid buildup and corroding of the terminals. This can eventually lead to a decrease in life expectancy for the battery and damage to the surrounding electrical systems of your car as well!
What Causes Overcharging On A Car Battery?
There are a number of things that can cause your car battery to be overcharged. And if you want to fix the issue, then you’re going to need to know what’s causing it from overcharging in the first place. With that being said, here are the reasons your car battery could be overcharging.
Your Alternator Is Faulty
A malfunctioning alternator regulator can cause your car battery to become overloaded by allowing too much current to pass through the circuit, leading to an overcharging situation.
Your Car’s Electrical System Is Faulty
If your car’s electrical system is not able to properly regulate the current, it can lead to too much electricity being drawn from the battery, leading to an overcharging situation.
The Charger You’re Using Is Set Incorrectly
If the charger you’re using is set at too high of a voltage, it can cause your car’s battery to overcharge. Make sure to always check the manual for your specific charger and follow its instructions closely!
A Faulty Voltage Regulator
If your car’s voltage regulator is not functioning correctly, it can cause the battery to become overcharged. This is why it’s important to check and replace your voltage regulator regularly as part of your routine maintenance schedule.
Extreme Heat
High temperatures can cause the battery to overcharge, leading to an increase in voltage. Be sure to keep your car out of direct sunlight and avoid extreme heat whenever possible!
What To Do When Your Car Batteries Voltage Is Too High
If you’re dealing with an overcharging car battery, there are steps you can take to fix the issue.
- First, check and replace any faulty components such as the alternator regulator or voltage regulator.
- Then, make sure your charger is set correctly and that your car’s electrical system is functioning properly.
- Finally, be sure to keep your car out of direct sunlight and away from extreme heat.
Doing these steps will help you to get your car battery voltage back to normal and prevent any further damage! Just remember, if the reading is still too high after taking all these measures then it’s time to call a professional for help.
Why Is Your Car Battery Voltage Too High When Running?
If your car’s battery voltage is too high when running, then it could mean that the alternator or voltage regulator is faulty or not working correctly, or it could mean that there is a problem with the charging system of your car. In any case, you should take your car into a mechanic to have it checked out and repaired as soon as possible!
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions that people have about their car batteries’ voltage is too high!
Are 15 Volts Too High For A Car Battery?
Yes, 15 volts is too high for a car battery. Car batteries should be between 12.4 – 12.9 when the car is off, and between 13.7 and 14.7 volts when they are in use. So anything above that could be an indication of an overcharging alternator or other electrical issues.
Is 14.7 Volts Too High On A Battery?
The only time your car should be reading 14.7 volts is when you’re driving, and even then, this is the maximum voltage output you should see. Any higher than this could be a sign of an overcharging alternator or other electrical issues.
Car Battery Reading 18 Volts, What Should I Do?
If you’re seeing a reading of 18 volts on your car battery, then something is definitely wrong. You should immediately take it to a mechanic to have it checked out and repaired as soon as possible!
Why Is Your Car Battery Reading 17 Volts?
If your car battery is reading 17 volts, then this indicates an issue with either the alternator or voltage regulator. This could be caused by a faulty component in the system or even a short circuit somewhere. You should take it to a mechanic as soon as you can to have it checked out and fixed.
Is It Normal For A Car Battery To Read 19 Volts?
No, it is not normal for a car battery to read 19 volts. This could indicate an issue with either the alternator or voltage regulator that needs to be looked at and fixed by a mechanic as soon as you can!
Why Is Your 12 Volt Battery Reading 20 Volts?
If your 12-volt battery is reading 20 volts, then this indicates an issue with either the alternator or voltage regulator. This could be caused by a faulty component in the system or even a short circuit somewhere. You should take it to a mechanic as soon as you can to have it checked out and fixed.
Why Is Your 12 Volt Battery Reading 16 Volts?
If your 12-volt battery is reading 16 volts, then this could indicate either an issue with the alternator or voltage regulator. This could be caused by a faulty component in the system or even a short circuit somewhere. You should take it to a mechanic as soon as you can to have it checked out and fixed.
Recap
In short, if your car battery voltage is too high it could be because of an issue with either the alternator or voltage regulator. Make sure to take your car to a mechanic as soon as possible to have the problem looked at and fixed. This can help you avoid any further damage and get your car running smoothly again! Good luck!