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janroth7

NBox generator failure

Alright guys, I'm pulling my hair out over here. My 2013 Honda NBox, gasoline engine, is giving me fits. Got 209470 km on the clock. The car feels like it's lost a bunch of power, and the battery warning light is mocking me from the dash. It's struggling to start, and the lights are flickering like a disco. To top it off, the car keeps throwing some generic error code. From what I've read, it sounds like the generator is shot. Anyone else run into this? Seriously frustrating!

Summary of the thread

A 2013 Honda NBox with 209,470 km is experiencing power loss, a battery warning light, starting difficulties, and flickering lights, suggesting a generator failure. The symptoms align with a faulty alternator, which can cause insufficient voltage affecting engine performance and electrical systems. The recommended solution is to have the generator checked and replaced by a qualified mechanic, which resolved the issue.

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4 comment(s)

mara_eis9

I understand your frustration. While I don't own a Honda, I had remarkably similar symptoms with my 2018 Volvo V60. Reduced engine power, dashboard warnings, and difficulty starting all pointed to a charging system issue. Have you checked the voltage across your battery terminals while the engine is running? A healthy charging system should maintain a voltage of around 13.5 to 14.5 volts. A significant drop below that range may indicate a faulty alternator.

janroth7 (community.author)

Okay, that's helpful to know it's not just a 'Honda' thing. I don't have a voltmeter handy, but if it's the generator (alternator, whatever you want to call it), wouldn't the car just completely die after a while? I'm still able to drive it, though I don't want to risk getting stranded. And does the alternator impacts the engine power? I thought it was just about charging the battery.

mara_eis9

To address your questions: While a completely failed generator will eventually lead to a dead battery and a non-operational vehicle, an intermittently failing generator can still provide some charge, allowing you to drive for a limited time. However, this is not advisable as you risk complete failure at an inopportune moment, as you correctly pointed out. Regarding engine power, modern vehicles rely heavily on electrical systems. Insufficient voltage can affect various sensors and actuators, leading to reduced engine performance. In my professional opinion, based on the symptoms you've described, a defective generator is a highly probable cause. I recommend you visit a qualified workshop.

janroth7 (community.author)

Thanks a lot! I took your advice and brought it to my local mechanic. Turns out the generator was indeed toast, just like you said. The final bill came out to 960€ for a new generator and labor. Ouch! Appreciate you pointing me in the right direction. At least now I know what was going on.

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HONDA

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NBOX