well i need to know what will happen b/c i got to get to school today and i dont want to drive it if something bad is gonna happen..
Dave

 

You will start burning out electronics (including any bulbs that are on).

16 Volts is the absolute max... anything more and you are past design tolerances.

You would be better to drive with no alt, than driving with an alt charging that high.

 

You'll overcharge the battery which will reduce its life significantly.

 

Also, you should overheat your battery which may result in a boilover/explosion. That will be one hell of a mess in your engine bay.

James

 

Also, get a voltmeter on that battery to double check the alt is charging that much. Maybe it is just the cluster gauge.

James

 

Yes this is a serious problem. Turn on all the lights etc and if the volts stay high do not drive it unless you disconnect the alternator. Buying anothe ECU and all would not be fun.