Why does my Voltage needle flicker?

Asked by Guru9LRNNK Sep 09, 2021 at 09:31 AM about the 1994 Chevrolet C/K 1500 Silverado Extended Cab RWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I have a 1994 Chevy Silverado, 5.7L, V8. When I am driving or standing still,
use my left/right turn signal, the voltage needle flickers. Also, if I have the door
open and use the power locks, the cab lights flicker a bit. Any insight (ground
issues) into why this is happening would be appreciated.

2 Answers

157,615

This is normal. Vehicle electric systems are 12 volt DC (direct current) not 120 volt AC (alternating current) house current. When the turn signal flashes the volt meter will move slightly because of the momentary power draw. Same with the power locks and slight dimming of the interior lights. Power fluctuations are more noticeable in a vehicle, that's all. Hope that helps! Jim

1 people found this helpful.

I updated a lot of items on the truck since I had it sitting for a bit: new battery, alternator, starter, new pos/neg cables, straps and so on. All fuses checked, but still get the flickering. If normal, great, but is it possible the issue could be in the cluster itself? Have not checked that or gotten another to test that theory. Thoughts?

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