Hi all,

I have a standard 2002 civic with an electrical problem.

Last night as I was driving on the highway, all of my power started to "drain" away, and I watched as my radio, dashboard lights and headlights began to dim and die. Here's the kicker- when I clutch in, everything comes back to full power. When I re-engage the clutch, I get a few moments of full power and then the lights begin to dim again.

Last month I had the battery replaced (new, full warranty), and I've kept the vehicle well maintained for the last 5 years.

What do you think this could be? Alternator? Belt? The new battery? I'm not a do-it-yourselfer, and my independent mechanic is booked up, so I'm off to the dealership tomorrow when I get up... just wondered if you could arm me with some ideas in case they try to take me to the cleaners.

Thanks!

 

My guess is that the Alternator is not producing it rated output and it has taken this long for the new battery to reach the present reduced charge level. The Alternator is producing something otherwise you would get the Battery symbol on the dash. I have not experienced this in my Civic yet but I have experienced it in a 90 Accord a couple of different times as the stock Alternator and then the first replacement Alternator failed after about that same lifespan.