Hey guys, just joined with a question.

[bigsixe34]

What's up guys?
Just joined the boards and did some research on the battery light for my mom's '03 Limited, but wanted to clarify one thing...
It came on while driving today, so I pulled over and did a little phone research and from what one of the users here said, the battery itself being near-dead wouldn't trigger it (?) but rather it only indicates a discharge. I wanted to find out about this before assuming the alternator or cable are on their way out, because the lock in the ignition tumbler that retains the key is busted and the key can be removed at any position, which has killed the battery before when other family members did not know and took it out before turning all the way left, so ruling out a dead battery would be great to know as I can get to fixing the issue tomorrow . Thanks!
-Teddy

 

[momo.75]

Welcome to T4R.ORG! Hopefully somebody will be able to give you an answer on your issue.

 

[combatmedic]

I would swing by an autozone or advanced and get your battery tested. Better safe than sorry.

 

[BOSMECH]

First off you need to fix the key issue.
Then go from there if the problem continues.

 

[bigsixe34]

First off you need to fix the key issue.
Then go from there if the problem continues.

The issue with the ignition is separate, not really what I'm asking about. It's been that way for months without any issue unless someone driving doesn't know to push the key in and keep turning.
I basically just am asking for anyone to clarify whether or not a weak battery will trigger the battery light in the dash. Assuming it is triggered by discharge from the battery instead of the alternator charging it, then it's safe to say it's alternator related, I think. Please correct me if I'm wrong though!

 

[eli_lilly]

I've never seen a car where the battery light lit when the battery was dead, it's always when the alternator is shot. However, as one guy mentioned above, take it to autozone and they can load test the alternator there also. It's a pretty easy diagnostic.

-E