battery light on the dash comes for one reason and one reason only - disbalance of the regulator's bridge... this is how the battery light wired, not much of electronics here here, just plain electricity... however, the disbalance can be caused by several reasons... something out of balance on alt side, or something out of balance on car/battery side...

while the readings give 14V from the battery, the internal system can measure 11V, which matters more, as that is the reading taken where it matters... i repeat myself here... lol...


anyways, check the alt again, and then check the battery, as bad alt can ruin an otherwise good battery...

Update 2: I can't get in anywhere until Monday but the consensus of everyone I spoke to is that if the battery reads 14v at idle (regardless of amps) the alternator is not likely at fault and if the battery didn't lose charge overnight it likely isn't the battery either. Everyone thinks we're looking for a bad ground somewhere as others have alluded to in this thread. Guess I know what I'm doing this weekend. Will be taking it in Monday regardless to have everything load tested.

tl;dr: Search for the bad ground.

Problem resolved! Heading out tonight, will post full update with details for everyone soon.

Short version: Main positive connection from battery terminal was shorting. Connection arcing and was actually a pretty big fire hazard. OBC reading 13.7v now and a happy SAV!

I had a similar issue. Replaced my alternator 3 times in one week before I got a good one that actually put out steady voltage. The first one I installed was great for 3 days, then the battery light, followed by the ABS, Brake, 4x4 and Self Level inactive. Replaced it under warranty and the second one held a great power output, but whined severely. Replaced it again under warranty and so far so good.

Also, have you looked in the area of the alternator for fluid leakage? If you have a power steering leak (can spray on to alternator) or oil leak near the alternator the power steering fluid or engine oil can cause the alternator to go haywire.



edit: oops, guess I should have looked on page 2 before posting.