Subject: Eclipse will not idle after battery replacement
Question:

Hi,
I have a 2000 Eclipse, 6-cyl with manual 5-speed.
After stopping for gas the battery seemed dead and the engine would not turn over. I got it jump started, drove home and it seemed fine,started, etc. About 2 days later it would not turn over again. I charged the battery and it started fine but the engine shut off every time I came to a stop and after driving it for about 1 mile the battery was dead again. I figured what was happening is the battery was bad and that once started it ran fine pulling off the alt but at low idle it didn't get enough juice so it cut off. I replaced the battery and it starts fine now but still will not idle and shuts off every time I come to a stop. Could this be from the computer getting reset when I changed the battery?Will it will get better as I drive it or should I look somewhere else? I probably haven't put 1/8 mile on it since changing the battery.

Thanks,
david
Answer: David,
Your car's computer resets everytime your car shuts off, so that would not be a cause for your problem. This sounds more like an alternator problem than a battery problem. Your alternator is responsible for charging your battery constantly when your car is running. Your battery produces 12 volts. When your car is running, your alternator should be producing around 14.5 volts. If you have a voltmeter, you can check this yourself. If not, most major auto parts stores like AutoZone or Advanced Auto Parts can load test your battery and alternator for free. Your problem may be as simple as a blown alternator fuse or a loose ground connection at the battery or alternator. Make sure the battery terminal connecters are nice and tight and free of corrosion.

If you do not have an AutoZone in your area, and don't feel comfortable checking your electrical connections, bring your car to a local mechanic. Just ask them to test your battery and alternator. And ask them to inspect your alternator fuse and ground connections. You'll most likely find your problem there. Wosrt case scenario is that you'll have to replace your alternator, which really isn't that bad.
Good luck!