2 years ago I replaced my alternator due to too much power from my amp/speaker. Didn’t know any and just got a basic Carquest one. So now 2 years has past and my “check charging system” light flashes on and off randomly. Had the battery check said check connectors. Replaced them and still the light flashes on and off. Had alternator test and the voltage drops to he said 12.5 when everything is running. Got another Carquest alternator and it still did the same thing. What kind of alternator should I get??
TL AWD 2009
109,000 Miles

 

I just put in a Denso Remanufactured. No problems and 14V at the battery that was drained pretty good. Stock electrical. I think there has been bad experiences with car parts store brands on here. Might want to try disconnecting your audio gear first though to make sure there's nothing going on there.

How new is your battery, are you sure it's not toast?

 

Flashing on and off makes me think an
issue with the drive belt or the tensioner

 

I got the battery December 2019
So it’s 6-7 months old from WalMart
with a 3 year warranty.

 

I had the timing belt, water pump and shocks done October 2019. Which now that I think about it, shortly after that is when all the battery and check charging system light started coming on.

 

its the alternator. I've had this problem for 2 + years. I change it to a denso remanufactured one and hasnt come on since. Our cars dont like aftermarket brand alternators.

 

Our vehicles have dual stage charging so a charging voltage of 12.5v might be normal.
See https://opensiuc.lib.siu.edu/cgi/vie...text=auto_pres

I prefer to utilize a Denso rebuild alternator.

 

I got mine from here for about 135-140 after core charge returned

https://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...generator,2412

 

RockAuto.com is a GREAT place to purchase this part .... if you can wait for shipping.
Best available 2-day shipping (if you can wait 2 days) might make it cost more than purchasing locally.
It's also available at NAPA if you need it sooner.