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svencrystal79

Seat Inca Generator Problem

I'm experiencing a problem with my 2001 Seat Inca with a gasoline engine, and I'm fairly certain it's the generator. The van has 100337 km on the clock. I've noticed reduced engine power, the battery warning light is on in the speedometer, and the vehicle is starting poorly. Also, the lights are weak and flickering. I scanned for errors and there is an error stored that points towards the generator. Considering the symptoms, is it safe to assume it's a defective generator?

Summary of the thread

A 2001 Seat Inca with a gasoline engine is experiencing reduced engine power, a battery warning light, poor starting, and flickering lights, suggesting a generator issue. An error code points to the generator, indicating a likely alternator problem. Before replacing the alternator, it's advised to check the battery voltage, as a faulty battery can mimic alternator issues. If the voltage doesn't increase when the engine is running, it confirms an alternator problem. Ultimately, the workshop confirmed the generator issue, leading to an alternator replacement.

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4 comment(s)

max_koenig4

Sounds like a classic alternator issue. Reduced engine power and flickering lights often point to a failing charging system. The error code seals the deal. Before you jump to alternator replacement, have you checked the battery's voltage? A faulty battery can sometimes mimic alternator problems. Think of it like this: the alternator is the water pump, and the battery is the reservoir. If the reservoir is leaking (faulty battery), the pump will struggle to keep up. Also, is the starter motor performing as usual?

svencrystal79 (community.author)

Good point about the battery, I hadn't considered that. I'll check the voltage. What voltage should I be looking for, both with the engine off and running? And regarding the starter motor, could a struggling starter motor somehow put extra strain on the charging system and trigger these symptoms?

max_koenig4

Low voltage readings with the engine off definitely point to battery health issues. Running, you should see a higher voltage if the alternator is working correctly. If voltage does not increase when running, this confirms the alternator issue. Regarding the starter motor, it wouldn't directly cause the alternator to fail, but it could exacerbate a weak battery situation, leading to similar symptoms. Given your description and the error code, it's highly probable that you have an alternator issue. It's best to visit a workshop to have it properly diagnosed and the alternator replaced.

svencrystal79 (community.author)

The workshop confirmed it was the generator. Alternator replacement including labor came out to 960€. Thanks for your help and quick replies, I appreciate it. Hopefully, this thread helps others facing similar car electronics issues!

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SEAT

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INCA