Car battery issues

GalacticaActual

Hi all,

Me again!

Went to start the car this am and nothing but ticking noise.

Jump started the car and went for a good 30 min run it to charge it up.

Only been using it for short trips over the last couple of weeks. Had radio on and heater aircon etc.
Battery is only 14 months old, so is it likley I have just drained it, or is it more likley battery is bad?
Got a multi meter I could test the battery with but don't know how to use it.
Couod the alternator be on the way out,?
Could that be tested easily?

Thanks all.

RBZ5416

I'm sure you can find a YouTube video for testing but with the engine running above tickover, there should be around 14.4V present on the battery terminals. If there is then I'd say the alternator is likely OK & it's just your usage.

Check the clamps are tight & there's no oxidisation on the terminals.

IronGiant

Use the multimeter to check the battery at rest.  Set it on 20V DC.  It should read over 12V.  If it's below 12 volts then it's probably having problems holding a charge, or something is draining it.  Get someone to start it with the meter still attached, it will most likely drop below 12V, but as above it should soon climb to around 14.4V.

GalacticaActual

Terminals seem OK and secure

Any idea what the meter should be set at? It's the one pictured.

I have tried all sorts but can't get it to work.

Thanks

lowmans100

As irongiant said.
Set dial to 20V, black to -ve red to  ve

IronGiant

If the display doesn't display anything you need a new battery for the meter.

RBZ5416

It's currently (no pun intended) set to measure AC. Move the grey slide switch over one notch & turn the rotary switch to 20..

IronGiant

GalacticaActual

Have tried this with engine on, getting all zeros on display.....

Not sure what Iam doing wrong...

lowmans100

Do you have an AA battery you can check the multi-meter with?