Battery not charging Toyota Corolla E170

Problem: Battery Not Charging on Toyota Corolla E170 (2013-2019)

Step 1: Visual Inspection

1. Tools Required: Flashlight.

2. Inspect the Battery:

   • Check for corrosion on battery terminals.
   • Ensure battery terminals are tight and secure.
   • Look for any physical damage or leaks on the battery.

3. Inspect the Alternator:

   • Visually check the alternator belt for cracks, wear, or looseness.
   • Ensure all electrical connections to the alternator are secure.

Step 2: Battery Voltage Test

1. Tools Required: Multimeter.
2. Procedure:
   • Set the multimeter to DC voltage.
   • With the engine off, measure voltage across the battery terminals. A healthy battery should read between 12.4 to 12.7 volts.
   • Start the engine and measure the voltage again. A functioning charging system should read between 13.7 to 14.7 volts. If not, proceed to the next step.

Step 3: Alternator Output Test

1. Tools Required: Multimeter.
2. Procedure:
   • Keep the engine running.
   • Measure the output voltage directly at the alternator terminal. It should be around the same range as the battery while running (13.7 to 14.7 volts).
   • If the alternator output is low, the alternator may be faulty.

Step 4: Check Alternator Belt

1. Tools Required: Wrench set.
2. Procedure:
   • Inspect the belt tensioner and ensure the belt is correctly tensioned. If the belt is loose or damaged, it may need replacement or adjustment.

Step 5: Load Test the Battery

1. Tools Required: Battery load tester.
2. Procedure:
   • Perform a load test on the battery to ensure it can hold a charge under load conditions. If the battery fails the load test, it may need replacement.

Repair Instructions:

Repair 1: Clean Battery Terminals

1. Tools Required: Battery terminal cleaner or wire brush, baking soda, and water.
2. Procedure:
   • Disconnect the battery terminals (negative first, then positive).
   • Clean the terminals and posts using a mixture of baking soda and water to neutralize any acid, then scrub with a wire brush.
   • Reconnect the terminals (positive first, then negative).

Repair 2: Replace Alternator

1. Tools Required: Wrench set, socket set, new alternator.
2. Procedure:
   • Disconnect the battery.
   • Remove the alternator belt.
   • Disconnect the wiring harness from the alternator.
   • Unbolt the alternator from its mounting bracket.
   • Install the new alternator, ensuring it is properly aligned.
   • Reconnect the wiring and belt.
   • Reconnect the battery.

Repair 3: Replace Battery

1. Tools Required: Wrench set, new battery.
2. Procedure:
   • Disconnect the old battery (negative first, then positive).
   • Remove any securing bracket or clamp.
   • Install the new battery, ensuring correct polarity.
   • Secure the battery with its bracket or clamp.
   • Reconnect the terminals (positive first, then negative).

Final Checks:

• Start the vehicle and ensure the battery warning light is off.
• Re-check the charging voltage with the multimeter to confirm proper charging.
• Test drive the vehicle and monitor electrical systems for proper functionality.

Note:

If the problem persists after these repairs, consider consulting a professional automotive technician as there may be more complex electrical issues at play.