Battery light won't turn off

[devlin333]

I have a 2002 PT Cruiser. Had a dead battery that we replaced ourselves. There was also a problem with the alternator, which drained the new battery. Ended up replacing the alternator (again ourselves), had the battery charged back up at AutoZone, put the battery back in - now the battery light still will not go off. Not sure what is causing this problem. The light went off the first time the new battery was put in.

Is it possible the computer's memory is keeping the light on?

Is there a way to simply reset the battery light?

Need an answer ASAP. Thanks for anyone's help on this!

[BLUEH20]

Take it to a battery shop and have them check the alternator--this they will usually do the inspection free in anticipation of making the repair if necessary.

Light off at first then off--

The new battery had a full charge and as you used the vehilce with the failed (?) alternator the charge decreased to a point that the ML was set.

Let us know what you find.

[devlin333]

Originally Posted by BLUEH20

Take it to a battery shop and have them check the alternator--this they will usually do the inspection free in anticipation of making the repair if necessary.

Light off at first then off--

The new battery had a full charge and as you used the vehilce with the failed (?) alternator the charge decreased to a point that the ML was set.

Let us know what you find.

I'm confused by your answer. We just put in a brand new alternator. Not sure if you are suggesting there may still be a problem with the alternator? (Thank you for responding by the way)

[BLUEH20]

Had an alternator problem do not register as "a new alternator installed"--my error.

I still recommend you have a service center give you a quick free check of the charging circuits. Could the battery be bad off the shelf--yes--was is the date of manufacture code on the battery. Is it a fresh battery or one that has sat for 6 or so months on the shelf.

Pull the codes using the key on/off sequence and lets see what is hiding in the computer memory.

What is the condition of your cables--corrision?

[devlin333]

The cables are corrosion free.

[CREWZIN]

To reset the battery light just take the negative battery cable off for about 5 minutes but that will only mask the real problem. I'd go with BLUEH20's recommendation and take your PT to a battery shop or auto shop that will test your charging system for free.