Headlights flicker/dim?

[JustADude]

Just wondering if anyone has noticed their headlights dim/flicker while driving on the 2008 or 2009 Mazda5?

Read one post someplace - don't have link - where a person mentioned going to HIDs to get around this problem, so wasn't sure if that was a common problem or not.

Thanks.

 

[zwegersd]

I have an 06 with 41k miles. It has been doing that for the last year. i suspect my battery might need to be replaced soon, but not sure. I'll ask the dealer on my next visit if I can remember.

 

[bilzfan]

I only notice dimming when I'm turning the steering wheel when not moving or moving slowly so that the electric power steering assist is working the hardest. I think this is quite normal.

 

[coolmazda5]

I've been doing some research as my 06 battery seems to be getting bad. The lights are dimming now so it might be possible that the alternator is not doing its job well...

Problem is that with Winter you never know, just whatever the car might have will make it more evident

So either battery or battery + alternator

Any input is great

Thx

Here is my other thread, just in case:
http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?p=4319760

 

[2ride4life]

Hi,
Have you mentioned whether you checked the voltage of the car while running?
I had problems with an old honda before, where the flickering was caused by a bad voltage regulator causing the alternator to over-charge.
I am assuming that with the car off the battery should show ~ 12 V, but when running it should be ~ 14 V. I don't have a manual around, so I am just guessing. Can any one chime in with manufacurer specifications?

 

[coolmazda5]

No, but here we go

I actually checked both my cars to have a point of comparison:

2006

• Switched off: 11.80-12.20v
• Switching on: goes down to 8.5-9v then climbs to 14.2v quickly (it is cold, but cranking sounds slower than the 08)
• Once switched on: around 14.2v
• When turning on lights: goes down to around 12-13v, then goes back to 14.2v

2008

• Switched off: 12.5v
• Switching on: goes down to around 10.2v then climbs to 14.25v quickly
• Once switched on: around 14.25v
• When turning on lights: goes down to around 13.8v, then goes back to 14.25v

No oscillations observed, it seems to be pointing towards a tired battery (uhm), any thoughts?

 

[ChadSpeed]

My 06 5 has done it since new. When turning at slow speeds also when rolling the windows up and down while moving or nor, even turning the fan speed up and down will make the lights dim. When I bought it there was 60 miles on it and it had an Interstate Battery in it, no cranking problems, just seems like a weak, poorly engineered electrical system.