On my 87 Accord LXI, the heater blower is significantly weaker at idle than it is when you accelerate. Also, when I hit the brakes while idling/stopped, the interior gauge lights visibly dim and the headlight output dims. It goes back to normal when I release the brake. These issues have been in place since I got the car 2 years ago at 202,000 miles. I assume (perhaps incorrectly?) the blower fading at idle and the brake light effect on the interior and exterior lighting are likely related to the same problem.

Battery was replaced shortly after I bought the car, and it did not affect these problems at all. No better, no worse. Ditto when the alternator was replaced at 206,625. No change.

What steps can I take to further investigate and remedy these issues, since I have good reason to believe it isn't the battery or alternator (the charging system still tests fine)? I'd of course prefer to do it in order of least to most trouble, time and money. Thanks for your input.

 

What's your idle rpms?

Alternators don't put out full power until the engine is at about 1000rpms, so a little bit of dimming can be normal at idle. If your idle speed is too low, it would definitely cause an excessive power drop.

I might also check all the major ground points in the engine bay. Clean the main ground wire connections and see if that helps any. (Free to try, anyways.)

 

@smarsquid, if you were sober long enough to actually think about what you are doing that might help? Try buying a Chiltons owner manual! Ummm, maybe before buying a car that has 200 plus thousand miles you should have thought about it. Maybe moving from Siberia would help! Also, maybe if you had something more than your we-we, a screwdriver and hammer as your set of tools would help!Ha HA LMAA-laughing myself asleep. Whats up Kyle, long time no see. Hope you got it fixed?Email me if you still have any problems. I moved and live in vegas.

 

You're about 6 years late, boss.

 

lol You have to be kidding.