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djet820
10-05-2003, 01:00 PM
I don't know if it's just me or does everybodies car do this?
When I have my back defroster on, my headlights get dim unless I'm pushing the gas. Also the headlights get dim when I apply my brakes.
Kwando
10-05-2003, 01:15 PM
Doesn't happen to me in the prelude.
95GSRB18C
10-05-2003, 01:18 PM
could be the battery or the alternator...
CXhatchboy520
10-05-2003, 02:08 PM
Happens in mine, but my motor doesnt have enough power to keep the headlights and defroster going w/o getting dim. I'm just glad that I dont have the HF.......
STIBungy
10-05-2003, 02:20 PM
Sounds like a weak alternator.
AgressivMX3
10-05-2003, 03:23 PM
yep, prolly weak alternator, or maybe corrosion
hsunchen
10-06-2003, 05:07 PM
Check voltage with those accessories on. It shouldn't drop more than 1/2 volt or so, assuming it starts at about 13.2 volts or higher.

If it dives way down, you may have a dying alternator or voltage regulator.
djet820
10-06-2003, 05:36 PM
Awww man..and alternators are so expensive.
hsunchen
10-06-2003, 05:55 PM
Maybe not. Could be something as simple as a loose belt (although those usually squeal).

I'd suggest you get a cheap digital multimeter from Harbor Freight if you don't have one already for your tool box.

If you can pull an alternator yourself, you can get it rebuilt locally and maybe save some bucks.
djet820
10-06-2003, 06:06 PM
How much do you think it costs for a rebuild? Because i've been looking around and the cheapest I can find is like $200 god awful dollars.

If I get a multimeter, How do I use it? lol
Mario
10-06-2003, 06:28 PM
Originally posted by djet820
How much do you think it costs for a rebuild? Because i've been looking around and the cheapest I can find is like $200 god awful dollars.

If I get a multimeter, How do I use it? lol

If memory serves me right, you have a 2nd gen integra... what year is it? NOPI has them for $140.. and $80 core charge.
djet820
10-06-2003, 06:34 PM
it's a 91. So $220? Man alive
Mario
10-06-2003, 06:36 PM
Originally posted by djet820
it's a 91. So $220? Man alive

Ok, so here is how it works: you buy it for $220, replace it, then send your old one back and you get $80 back. :)
hsunchen
10-07-2003, 09:43 AM
Maybe you should go to Checker's or Autozone or something and get them to test your alternator for free before you start worrying about replacing it.
STIBungy
10-07-2003, 10:54 AM
Also, check the contacts on the battery and on the alternator. Make sure they're clean and tiiite.