I searched the forums and found some bits of information about my problem but nothing exact. Basically i have a 2000 honda civic dx with flickering lights everywhere. the instrument panel, headlights, dome lights, etc.

I've done some basic troubleshooting like cleaning the battery connections, voltage check's, fuse checks and the only thing ive come up with is that the electrical system is overcharging. When the car is off the battery is 12.6v. With the car idle and no electrical load its over 16v!

any help would be appreciated.

EDIT: I wanted to add that i have no check engine light. Key in ignition on i have a battery light, oil light, and SRS light (which has been going in and out for the longest time while driving)
Ive read a lot of stuff about the ECU, the Voltage Regulator, and the unit inside the fuse box under the hood. How can i got about troubleshooting this further to figure out what the problem is?

 

OMG OP. It sounds like your Voltage when the car has been sitting is perfect, 12.6 V. When running, at 16V, your running dangerously close to frying stuff. I would run the engine, and do a direct Voltage test on your alternator, with no load. Positive on your multimeter to the contact point on the alternator, negative on the negative battery ground wire.

If its too high, your voltage regulator is probably cooked, and it's time to get a new alternator before your current one destroys stuff.

 

^

 

Does the voltage regulator reside inside the alternator? And at the risk of sounding retarded, can the ECU throw false load demands at the alternator? How can i troubleshoot this myself with a volt meter? I want to make sure its the alternator before i go buy one.