why is my Skoda Octavia's battery light on while driving

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.
• Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for safety.

2. Battery Inspection

• Tools Required: Multimeter, battery terminal cleaner, wire brush
• Clean any corrosion from the battery terminals with a wire brush and terminal cleaner.
• Reconnect the battery terminals securely.
• Check the battery voltage with a multimeter; it should read approximately 12.6 volts when fully charged.

3. Alternator Testing

• Tools Required: Multimeter
• Start the engine and measure the voltage at the battery terminals again; it should read between 13.8 to 14.5 volts if the alternator is functioning properly.
• If the voltage is below 13.8 volts, the alternator may be faulty.

4. Replace Faulty Components

• If the battery or alternator is found to be faulty:
  • Battery Replacement:
    • Remove the battery by loosening the securing bolts and disconnecting the terminals (negative first, then positive).
    • Install the new battery in reverse order, ensuring secure connections.
  • Alternator Replacement:
    • Remove the serpentine belt by loosening the tensioner.
    • Disconnect the wiring harness from the alternator.
    • Remove the alternator mounting bolts and take out the alternator.
    • Install the new alternator and reconnect the wiring harness.
    • Replace the serpentine belt, ensuring proper alignment.

5. Final Steps

• Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
• Start the engine and check for proper operation of the battery light and electrical systems.