Battery/Speedometer relation??

[jimmie123]

I have a 99 Dodge Grand Caravan SE. Just noticed this issue today. I went to start it, and the starter cranked as if the battery were going dead. It did start though. Went to work, had the same problem when coming home (seemed like "low" battery, but it did start). On the way home, I noticed that the speedometer wasn't working. I intend to inspect the battery tomorrow, but what would be the relationship (if any) between a possibly "low" or bad battery and the speedometer??
Jim H.

[vamc]

I would have to go with the alternater on this one. That would affect all that was stated.

[jimmie123]

Thanks for the alternator suggestion. That was going to be the 2nd thing I looked at. Question: is there an "easy" way to check an alternator or would it be better to remove it and have it checked at a service station?? In the "old days" it was easy, but now, with all the built in computer peripherals etc. I'm not sure if there is test that can be done by the average person who doesn't possess $10,000 worth of tools, lol.

[vamc]

You can have a load test done at an autozone or pepboys. My dad told me in the older day, it was also easer to work on car and hop them up, now if you toutch anything the check engine light goes on. But anyways, i would do a load test, and that will tell you if its the alternater or not. start with that.

[jimmie123]

Hi All, Went to Midas today. They tested the alternator - it was fine. Battery had a dead cell. Had the battery replaced, everything (including the speedometer) is now working fine. Thanks for everyone's input.

[B33p3r]

The computers also use battery voltage to function. If the voltage runs low or grounds are bad, it can affect the computers communications with each other. That's the best I can do trying to tie your speedometer in with the battery.