My '00 cherokee battery died. Was able to jumpstart it but the voltage went up to 19. The battery will not hold a charge. I have been able to jump it and drive it for a week or so with the voltage spiked most of the time. I've checked every connection I can get my hands on. Will a new battery help or am I looking at an alternator too?

 

I would it may be just the battery and the alt. is just putting out all it can to bring it up. Best way to find out is to go by an AutoZone (they have a tester) and have them check both for you they do it for free.


That way you will know for sure what all you need to replace.

 

Stop driving it. Overvoltage can fry things.

 

It had spiked briefly and sporadically before the battery died without causing noticeable damage. So when it spiked and did not return to normal for more than a minute when the battery did die, I was willing to risk a fry.

I have replaced the battery and repaired/replaced several wires and the voltage has not spiked. I've been driving it 50+ miles for about a week

 

It had spiked briefly and sporadically before the battery died without causing noticeable damage. So when it spiked and did not return to normal for more than a minute when the battery did die, I was willing to risk a fry.

I have replaced the battery and repaired/replaced several wires and the voltage has not spiked once. I've been driving it 50+ miles for about a week with a spare alternator in the passenger seat. Stay tuned...