Can the car be driven when the positive and negative terminal lights are on?
3 Answers
When the positive and negative terminal lights are on, the car should not be driven as it indicates a malfunction in the vehicle's charging system. The possible causes for this issue are as follows: 1. Generator Belt: If the generator belt is aged, carbonized on the surface, or has insufficient tension, it may slip and produce abnormal noises, causing the generator to lose rotation and triggering the warning light. 2. Damaged Generator Bearing: A damaged generator bearing can lead to idling, and the rotor and stator of the generator may come into contact and friction, resulting in overheating. In such cases, the bearing needs to be replaced. 3. Battery Connection Wires: If the battery connection wires are loose or corroded, they should be reconnected securely if they are loose or improperly connected. If the wires are corroded, they need to be replaced.
I've been driving for over a decade and have encountered this battery warning light situation many times. That light is usually the charging system indicator, and when it comes on, it means there might be an issue with the alternator or charging system—like a loose belt, alternator failure, or an aging battery. The car can still run for a short while on the remaining battery power, typically enough for about 20-30 kilometers. But don't push it too far; once the battery drains, the car will suddenly stall, which could be dangerous if you're in a bad spot. It's best to pull over as soon as possible and check the belt tension or voltage to avoid a roadside breakdown and costly repairs. Regular maintenance checks on the alternator and belt can prevent these issues, keeping you safe and worry-free.
I'm particularly concerned about driving safety. When this light comes on, it indicates a problem with the charging system. Can I still drive? Theoretically, you could continue driving using the battery's stored power, but the risk is too high. If the car stalls on the highway or at night, power steering and brakes could fail, leading to accidents. My advice is to slow down immediately, pull over safely, turn on hazard lights to alert other drivers, and call for assistance or head to a repair shop for inspection. Don't attempt to drive too far—safety always comes first. Regular maintenance of the alternator can help prevent such issues.
