Hello, Im hoping someone might be to help with this issue - I've done everything i know to do and consulted everyone i know to consult...so now i'm coming to the experts. I know it's probably an issue that's been rehashed many times on here but any info or ideas are much appreciated.

Issue: internal volt gauge reading low charge (10v-12v)

Vehicle info:
- 96 cherokee country 4.0
*Note: i do have a check engine light on which calls for the downstream o2 sensor.

Recent replacements:
- battery (5/10)
- alternator (new) & serp belt (10/10)
- battery cables (3/11)
- starter (3/11)

The short:
I hooked up a multimeter yesterday and the battery was at 12.7 volts and with engine on it's reading at about 14.5 volts. After leaving the engine running for a few minutes with everything turned on, the multimeter started spiking up to about 16 volts and then back down to normal, finally settling at about 14.5 volts. Internal gauge still reads about 11 volts and drops to about 10 or so with lights and blower on.

 

Based on your testing the charging system is fine. The guage is wrong. Not too surprising as the stock guages in our rigs are NOT precision instruments, really just glorified idiot light.

 

appreciate the quick reply, 93. i don't understand where the gauge gets its information - where does it tie into the charging system? you don't think it could be a bad wire or a faulty computer issue?