2006 Expedition "check charging system"

[06 Eddie]

I am getting the check charging system and the battery light in my 06. The car drained itself dead luckily while at autozone. Battery tested 11 v but wouldn't crank. It eventually accepted a jump after being attached for about 3-4 minutes. Once started it died after a few minutes running. New battery started right up but once the air ride begins which sounds like it's struggling to air up the check light comes on. Guessing something is draining my power. Anyone able to pinpoint this? At this point the volt meter is good even when the check light comes on.

 

[John Christopher]

You may have a bad air pump and it's drawing too much current. Try disconnecting it and see what happens.

 

[06 Eddie]

In case anyone else runs into this issue it seems to be corrected. A new battery did not cure the problem. I added a new alternator wire harness also known as fusible link cable. So far so good for $40 from Tasca parts. I went this route after researching some youtube and forums. I know it's frowned upon to not search first per the forum warriors but sometimes when you're in a jam a particular question or problem needs to be answered asap. If the problem comes back I will just have it serviced and update.

 

[06 Eddie]

the " check charging system" light is on again. After self diagnostics I replaced the battery and alternator/fuse link cable. At this point, I'm taking it in for service. This thread seems dead side from one response so if I can help anyone in the future I'll continue to post my results.​

 

[the bus]

Check output on alternator?? They usually fail around 140k. Also 'new' batteries are notorious for not being fully charged as well. Between a weak alternator and weak new battery and a running air pump it will never catch up. I also had old alternators 'pass' on the bench test... changed it out anyway and problem solved.

 

[lbv150]

It was the alternator on mine.

 

[blue oval guy]

If you have more than 150K miles on oem alternator it is probably the source of your issues, also use a fresh correct Motorcraft battery if possible.

 

[06 Eddie]

Thanks guys! Too late on the battery issue as it died on me in autozone so a Duralast it is for now. The alternator wire harness is motorcraft and if it's a new alt I need I requested a motorcraft as the replacement.

 

[06 Eddie]

ended up being the alternator....problem solved

 

[blue oval guy]

thanks for posting

 

[06 Eddie]

No doubt! I know the feeling of being in a jam and looking for answers. Funny thing is this is the first time I've been in a "cash car" since 2004. Just manipulation of the debt to income ratio while we house hunt. I certainly don't miss car repairs. Hopefully this is about it for a while. I just want 3 strong years out of my $2500 expedition and I'll rep them for life.

 

[WCGator]

I'm finding out that a alternator can "overcharge". If this goes unchecked it may cause the battery to swell. Ergo more troubles. Over charging is caused by a failing voltage regulator.
THE CURE!
Replace alternator. Only thing can be done unless your skilled at alternator refurbishment.
So far......so good.