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Electrical problem - battery was reversed
Car: Dodge, Neon, 2000 - Back to Fix-It - Dodge Repair Manuals
Q.I have a 2000 Dodge Neon. The battery on my car had been drained by my car alarm which I mistakenly set when I took off for 6 months.
My friends replaced the battery with the wrong kind of battery (the terminals were reversed), and they didn't pay attention when they hooked it up.
I was told that something sparked, smoke came out of the engine and after that it was shut off. I have replaced the battery with a brand new one and got the car running again. However, when I turn on the car, after no longer than a minute, the battery light on my dash comes on and won't turn off until I turn the car off.
Also, outside of the headlights, dashboard lights, hazards and other lights necessary to run the car, nothing else electrically runs in my car.
I've replaced the battery, I've changed the spark plugs, I put in a brand new alternator and nothing seems to be working. I got it tested at a mechanic and the machine they used said that the battery passed the test, but the alternator and starter failed. The alternator is new, but the starter is not yet. I don't know what to do to get this light to go away and get my car running 100% again.
I already checked/done: new battery, new alternator, new spark plugs.
Answer Do you have charging voltage when the light comes on? This should be about 14.7volts. Its possible that when wires were crossed damaged occurred to the Powertrain control module field driver circuit. This can be tested with a scan tool to force the PCM to actuate the generator field.
You must also make sure you have (ASD) voltage to the generator when engine is running. Here is a wiring diagram for you charging system.
Addition I'm confused, I'm not very knowledgable when it comes to cars, so I don't know what I'm supposed to be looking for or even what I'm looking at. I just know that this dang light keeps coming on and confusing the hell out of me.
Answer You have burnt wires-Probably the harness that goes to your alternator.
Answer wyrm, This usually means your battery is not getting the full charge it needs. I would get this checked out right away, you dont want to be stranded with a dead battery. It also appears that some damage was done do to the battery being reversed this can short wires and componants.
If you are not familier with cutting open wiring harnesses and tracing down a short you should find a reputable mechanic.
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