Did a search hoping to find the magic answer, didnt find it.. I will try to keep this short and simple..(lol) Wake up one am and car is dead... Jump car runs then dies, alternator removed bench tested at AutoZone, its bad.. Buy aftermarket cheap replacement, install reconnect battery and as soon as its connected, charging light lights up on cluster.. ( Key is not in ignition) Okay so inspect wires all look fine, am told maybe its a bad alternator, remove and return benchtested fine but they replaced with different one.. Install and also install new battery as old one was dead dead... Same problem.. My question is this Should I replace with a Bosch alternator as I'm hearing and reading that the voltage regulator maynot be correct for my car? The only problems prior to car not starting, was when driving at night with lights and radio on, upon starting for about 3 miles a horrible whine would happen. All belts were fine, but once again was told that was a sign alternator was going.. Am I missing something simple or am I looking at a wiring harness which seems to be every repair shops fix, noone has looked at it but they automatically say wiring harness when I say the problem. Any suggestions would be great...

 

One thing I have learned, you get what you pay for. Especially with alternators and starters. Cheap price - cheap quality. Having said that, I would replace it with the Bocsh. Hope it helps

 

sounds like a bad ground or activating wire is not connected. check all fuses. good luck!!