I was driving home from work thursday and while in a drive through my battery and brake light came on while idling. i got out of the drive thru and back on the main road but the light turned off after accelerating. keeping an eye on my rpms and the lights i saw that the light is only off above 2k but back on whenever it was below. I know it’s a charging issue but i don’t want to go through replacing the whole thing if it’s something else. with the voltage regulator which could explain the turning on and off. any help would be appreciated as my knowledge with electrical is minimal.

 

99% likelihood that your alternator is slowly dying. The voltage regulator ("Integrated Regulator Assembly as Nissan calls it) is internal to the alternator as is not user serviceable AFAIK. Easier and cheaper to just replace the whole unit.

If you are able, remove it and have it tested. If you have to replace it stick with OEM/ name brand units (Mitsubishi, Hitachi, etc.) if your wallet can afford it. A lof of cheap Chinese units do not work/ play nicely with these cars. Alternatively, there may a rebuild shop in your area that can fix your OEM unit.

 

much appreciated! do you know a good site to buy a new one to make sure i’m getting oe quality? like rock auto or car parts.com moneys not too much of an issue, just want to get it fixed asap

 

I would strongly suggest you have the unit tested before you start throwing parts at the problem. There could be any number of potential gremlins: corroded/ loose wires, bad current sensor, etc.

IF, after the alternator/ charging system has been tested, it is determined that the alternator has to be replaced, then you can search for options. Me personally, I would have it rebuilt if there is a shop qualified in your area. There are many shops that rebuild starters, alternators, and other components. Depends on what is local to your area.

OEM units are 12V/150amp Mitsubishi brand (p/n: 23100-JK01A). I know several folks on here have had issues with Rockauto and specifically the "WAI Global" and "Pure Energy" units. I would try some online parts suppliers like infinitioforlandparkparts.com or discountinfinitiparts.com and see what they offer. If push comes to shove there is always eBay and, as a absolute last resort, the local chain stores.

 

well again i appreciate the help but i’ve got other news. while i was at work something caught fire. thankfully my mom was around and with my dad put the fire out with the extinguisher. but she’s gone now. now i have another whole set of issues to work on with it but again you have been great!