Voltage fluctuations
 

Hi has anyone noticed or experienced voltage fluctuation with their car.

I’m not sure if this is part of their fuel economy approach (decreasing alternator load therefore engine load) and only charging the battery when required. But I have notice on my Scan Gauge (also checked with a multimeter) that voltage fluctuates between 12.5 to 14.3 volts when driving the car above 1500 rpm at normal running temperatures without lights or other electrical accessories on. No warning lights come on or codes are set.

Thoughts?

I reckon it's probably normal.

never looked at voltage much on my scangauge as i always concentrate on water and oil temp.

will have a good in the next few days and report back.

yeah i haven't really looked at mine much, i think you are finding problems that don't exist. I honestly wouldn't worry unless you are close to or under 12v for extended periods.

ive had problems of my headunit cutting out here and there but it only happens on rare occasions.. Anyone else? Maybe this is linked to these voltage fluctuations.

Mine is the same and it only happens not long after starting up for a few seconds. I think it might be doing something so maybe normal.

I am sure anything that requires exact voltage would be in circuit with a voltage regulator. Momentary overvoltage by 10% or so shouldnt make a huge difference. Hardly a spike for things like lighting, etc.

Devices that are uber voltage sensitive (logic) are regulated and at a very low level via dedicated power supply (eg. 5V). At least that's the way it is with electronics that I tinker with. In a pinball machine a 12V unregulated line will easily reach 13.5V, but again it is unregulated.

If it aint broke, dont fix it.

It must be only in the early models (I'm assuming yours is).. i got mine way back in June/July