Seat Tarraco Generator Fault

I am experiencing some issues with my Seat Tarraco, built in 2022, with a gasoline engine, currently at 64478 km. I've noticed reduced engine power and a warning light has appeared on the speedometer. The car also starts poorly now. I've also observed weak or flickering lights. The error memory indicates a generator fault. Could a defective generator be the cause of all of these issues, particularly the car won't start problems and the battery low warnings? I am trying to understand the likeliest root cause.

4 comment(s)

That sounds remarkably similar to an issue I encountered with my Volvo V60 a few years ago. The symptoms you describe, particularly the reduced engine power coupled with the flickering lights, are quite indicative of an alternator issue. Did you by chance check the battery voltage while the engine was running? A significant voltage drop could certainly point to a failing generator. I am not a mechanic, but have you had any issues with the car electronics recently?

Regarding the voltage drop, could you elaborate on what readings you observed on your Volvo? And did you also experience any difficulties when starting the car?

Certainly. When my Volvo exhibited similar symptoms, the voltage would fluctuate erratically and dip well below 12V while the engine was running. And, yes, the car initially struggled and then eventually just plain car won't start. Given the symptoms you're experiencing and the error code, I would strongly suspect a defective generator, or alternator issue as some call it. I would recommend taking it to a qualified workshop for a thorough diagnosis; they can confirm the issue and provide a proper repair.

Thank you for your input. I took it to the workshop and, as suspected, the generator was indeed defective. The car is now repaired, but the total cost amounted to 960€.

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