Vehicle Questions and Answers
Welcome to the Vehicle Q&A Hub. Find answers to your automotive questions, share your experiences, and get expert advice on vehicle maintenance, troubleshooting, and more!
2638 views
4 answers
If there are issues with the alternator in a 2017 Honda Civic, you will notice a few clear signs. The first indication is a dead battery. While a dead battery does not always indicate a bad alternator, a malfunctioning alternator is a common cause of a dead battery. If the battery has not completely died, you might observe dim or erratic instrument panel behavior, including flickering and noise, as the power supply fluctuates. The cost of replacing the alternator, including parts and labor, typically ranges from $300 to $500, which can be a bit expensive, but necessary. Delaying the replacement of a faulty alternator may lead to the battery becoming unusable within a few weeks, costing an additional $100 or so. If you opt to replace the alternator yourself, you will need to unfasten the clamps and pull it out, thankfully located upfront and easily accessible.
I have a 2017 Honda Civic sedan that had trouble starting even after replacing the battery. The mechanic performed various tests on the charging system and discovered that the issue was with the "battery current sensor" Part #38920-TBA-A02. This part appears to be under recall for Accord models but not for Civics at the moment. It was surprising because all signs initially pointed to problems with the alternator or starter, but that wasn't the problem. I recommend having your mechanic thoroughly check the charging system to avoid any misdiagnosis. Hope this information is helpful to someone in a similar situation!
A compact battery that saves space is recommended. Consider getting an Auto Zone Duralast Gold for the added warranty! I've relied on these items for a long time. My truck, which I bought new in 1994, is now 26 years old. The old AC Delco alternator failed after just 5 years. I switched to a Duralast Gold and it lasted about 12 years. When it stopped working, Auto Zone replaced it for free. It's still working great.
Most public car charging stations face a common issue involving two main problems. Firstly, the vehicle continues to drain the battery when turned off, and secondly, overloading occurs, causing the battery to heat up and lose water. The root of this issue may lie in a faulty sensor or defective alternative charging methods. Honda addressed this global challenge within the Honda Accord model.