Late October, my 2006 Kia Spectra experienced a total failure of the charging system wherein I replaced the alternator and the battery. The error lights went off, and there were no problems for a week and a half with my cigarette plug voltmeter displaying normal voltage.

Suddenly, the battery began to drop voltage so I replaced the battery again. The charging issue continued, with car operation seemingly draining the battery despite the alternator and serpentine functioning normal. I retightened the terminals today and the charging system returned to proper condition, reading 12.6-13 volts consistently throughout the day.

Then this evening, the circuit began to fluctuate unpredictably, going from normal voltage all the way to the headlights dying and then returning back to normal voltage in a concerning and erratic manner. It appears that driving the vehicle seems to be both draining and charging it without any way for me to understand the cause. The battery lights remain off but flicker dimly maybe once a day.

I have a $99 electrical appointment on Monday and am going to see if there are any highly rated independent mechanics in my area that have openings over the weekend. The issue is clearly related to the wiring and I would appreciate any input from anyone who has worked with similar situations.