Battery Low Power warning Light

[Nanu]

Perhaps it's just the time of year that we have lights, heating , radio all on when we drive and link that with short journeys and it may explain the warning light showing when I tried to programme the Sat Nav with the engine not running.

Is there any way I can check using the cars idrive the level battery charge or if the alternator is actually charging the battery? Don't want to buy a new battery if I don't need one?
Cant find any obvious way of checking.

[metal licker]

Take it out for a good blast tomorrow that'll sort it out

[del_tl1000r]

If you check across the battery terminals with a multimeter with the car running I think it should read around the 13.5v region if the alternator is charging ok.

[obewan]

From recent experience and previous threads, I believe at rest if the battery is less than 11.6 volts it is time to replace
As above, test with a multimeter across the terminals
I was also getting other warning lights, mostly the service light

[Nanu]

Thanks guys,

Now to find a neighbour with a multimeter as even as a novice in these technical matters, don't suppose two wet fingers will suffice

[Mr Tidy]

Now to find a neighbour with a multimeter as even as a novice in these technical matters, don't suppose two wet fingers will suffice

Wet fingers probably isn't the best option - but if you can't find a helpful neighbour you could always buy a cheap one from Toolstation or Screwfix for about a tenner!

[Silverzedtom]

Thanks guys,

Now to find a neighbour with a multimeter as even as a novice in these technical matters, don't suppose two wet fingers will suffice

spend £20 and get the ‘Regin XE40’ multi meter. Does everything you’ll need in the car and around the house. I use mine every day at work and it’s never let me down

[Nanu]

Thanks for the recommendations, should come in handy as about to install some low voltage garden lights.