Hello. I have a 2012 Caravan that has the battery light on and it shows 11 volts and it's slowly going down. Am I correct in thinking it's the alternator or could there be some other problem. Any info would be great. Thank you

 

Where and how are you measuring the voltage? Don't assume we know that you know what you are doing. Be specific.

 

Connect your meter leads to the corresponding battery posts meaning black to negative and red to positive. Should read at least 12.3 volts dc. Now start the engine. The meter should read 13.5 to 14.5 volts dc. Now turn on every accessory in the van. Meter should read the same. It may dip a tenth or two but should quickly recover. If the voltages are in range the alternator is ok. If it's not then verify connections then change the alternator. Most parts stores will test alternators and batteries for free.

 

Sorry. I have a scan guage that I leave connect to the van at all times. I was going by the reading it was giving me. When I turn everything on in the van the reading dips into the high 10s and raising the rpms doesn't change the reading.

 

I'd get the battery load tested first and then get the alternator tested. Most auto parts will do this for free.

 

Thank you. I will get it. I hope that's all it is. New alternator is around $350.

 

Trust me, I know. We lost the alternator in our 09 Journey at about 75,000 miles. Luckily we had purchased an extended warranty which covered the replacement after we paid the $100 deductible. The whole bill was over $500 with labor added in.