Hello,

My girlfriend has a 1991 Camry 4 cyl. approx. 145,000 miles and it is having an issue with the alternator. When the car is idling the alternator only puts out 12 - 12.2 volts. However, when I hit the gas pedal and increase the engine RPMs the alternator puts out a decent 14 - 14.2 volts. :confused:
On my 1989 Camry the alternator voltage pretty much remains the same regardless of engine speed (rpms).

So my question is... is the altenator on it's way out? Not sure if replacing the brushes or the regulator would fix this problem. Your advice is appreciated. Thank You.

JOET/CAMRY

To me, it sounds like your voltage regulator is bad. If it is the original alternator, I would replace the alternator as a unit. If the price is prohibitive, then try the regulator first. The unit may last a long time, or not. No way of knowing. If the bearings are smooth when you turn the pulley, then that's a good sign.

Others may have more insight.