Lights Dim when Applying Brakes

[Paragon1]

I'm probably a bit overconcerned, but have any of you noticed a minor drop in headlight intensity when applying brakes? I have no problems cranking the engine or anything, but the last time I took it to the dealer they asked if I was.

Of course, i believe dealer's existence is dependent on selling fear, so id rather bounce the question off you guys first. Considering swapping out for an aftermarket battery, but i'm concerned it could be the alternator.

Thoughts? Cheers...

 

[Antman]

Have you disconnected any wiring underhood? I found a loose Power wire bolt(his fault) at the underhood fusebox on Kraeken's 4Runner and it was causing the same type of issue.

 

[eddiebx]

I'm probably a bit overconcerned, but have any of you noticed a minor drop in headlight intensity when applying brakes? I have no problems cranking the engine or anything, but the last time I took it to the dealer they asked if I was.

Of course, i believe dealer's existence is dependent on selling fear, so id rather bounce the question off you guys first. Considering swapping out for an aftermarket battery, but i'm concerned it could be the alternator.

Thoughts? Cheers...

How dim are we talking about here? And is it only when you press the brakes? I've noticed my headlights dim from time to time, but only very very slightly and it seems to just be from the normal voltage fluctuation because the alternator is turning on and off I think? I've noticed the operating voltage is anywhere from about 13.2-13.8 volts (depending on how much stuff is running and what not).

If you suspect your battery and don't trust your dealer, perhaps you can take the battery out and bring it down to your local auto parts store and have them run a load test on it? That would give you a pretty accurate and unbiased answer (unless the auto parts store rigged their tester to read wrong so they can sell you a battery, lol)