Alternator or battery
 

This is a 2002 Civic EX.

I am trying to determine if I need a new alternator, battery, or both. The battery is a few years old I don't think the alternator has ever been replaced. The belt was replaced last summer.

Here are some symptoms.

Yesterday after having the car idle with the AC and radio on for about 30 minutes the battery was too weak to start the car and had to be jump started. This morning it started fine again.

I have noticed sometimes the 50 watt inverter I have plugged into the 12V socket would not come on.

Sometimes when I start the car I have had the trip odometer and the radio reset.

I have not noticed the lights dimming.

Any input would be great!

Re: Alternator or battery
 

Test the battery.
Test the alternator.
Check the alternator belt tension and condition.

Test the car for excessive drain when the car is off.

Separate issue, not really relevant to the other items.

Re: Alternator or battery
 

normally if your alternator is bad/weak the battery light will be on while the engine is running.....is it?

Re: Alternator or battery
 

FYI that doesn't always happen even when it is bad.

THAT'S fun to explain to a customer.