Getting your car battery checked at Autozone is a common practice, but it’s not always foolproof. This article recounts a personal experience highlighting the potential pitfalls of relying solely on an Autozone Check Battery test. It emphasizes the importance of seeking multiple opinions and understanding the complexities of modern vehicle charging systems.
A recent visit to Autozone for a battery and alternator check resulted in a misdiagnosis. The Autozone employee, after performing an Autozone check battery procedure, declared the alternator faulty, producing only 24 amps and relying solely on the battery. He advised against driving the vehicle except to return home immediately, fearing further battery drain.
Following this dire warning, a new alternator was purchased from the dealership for $290 and promptly installed. A subsequent Autozone check battery test, however, yielded another unfavorable result. The new alternator was deemed faulty as well, outputting only 30 amps. The employee suggested seeking a second opinion at another Autozone.
Skeptical, a test was conducted at Advanced Auto Parts. This test indicated no issues with either the alternator or battery. To confirm, a third opinion was sought at Pep Boys, which corroborated the findings of Advanced Auto Parts.
Ultimately, the original alternator was perfectly functional. Modern vehicles utilize a PCM (Powertrain Control Module) to regulate the alternator’s output. Without a load on the system, an Autozone check battery test might not accurately reflect the alternator’s true performance. Unfortunately, the dealership’s no-return policy on electrical parts resulted in a $290 loss for an unnecessary replacement. The slight hesitation during cold starts, initially attributed to a faulty charging system, was likely due to the extreme cold weather.
The Autozone store manager is currently in discussions with the district manager regarding potential compensation. This experience underscores the importance of understanding that an Autozone check battery test, while helpful, shouldn’t be the sole basis for major repairs. Consulting multiple mechanics and understanding your vehicle’s specific charging system are crucial to avoid unnecessary expenses and potential misdiagnoses. Always seek multiple opinions before committing to costly repairs based solely on an Autozone check battery result.
