Question for the "Automotively Savvy"

[twa5786]

So, I had to take my 99 Nissan Maxima in to have the alternator replaced last week, and just days after getting it back, my air bag light is flashing, due to what has been diagnosed as a short circuit in the passenger door side airbag. Seems like more than a coincidence to me, or am I just being paranoid? I'm looking at another hefty repair bill.

The replacement of the alternator and the supposed requirement of disconnecting the battery lead me to believe that a short circuit could be the result of a mistake made by the mechanic, no?

Thanks, I appreciate any advice/insight from fellow Fanatics.

 

[Steve]

So, I had to take my 99 Nissan Maxima in to have the alternator replaced last week, and just days after getting it back, my air bag light is flashing, due to what has been diagnosed as a short circuit in the passenger door side airbag. Seems like more than a coincidence to me, or am I just being paranoid? I'm looking at another hefty repair bill.

The replacement of the alternator and the supposed requirement of disconnecting the battery lead me to believe that a short circuit could be the result of a mistake made by the mechanic, no?

Thanks, I appreciate any advice/insight from fellow Fanatics.

It's more likely that it was related to the original problem with the alternator (and I assume corresponding low battery) than anything that the repair shop did. I recently assisted someone with an alternator going out get their car into a shop. It took a couple of battery jumps and charges to get it across town. In the process, the check engine and other dashboard lights flashed randomly. After replacing the alternator and one of the battery cables that tested high resistance, we found that the circuitry in the throttle body assembly could not be reset. Another mechanic that I trust confirmed that it is common for other electronic devises to get fried when you have issues with the charging system.

 

[twa5786]

It's more likely that it was related to the original problem with the alternator (and I assume corresponding low battery) than anything that the repair shop did. I recently assisted someone with an alternator going out get their car into a shop. It took a couple of battery jumps and charges to get it across town. In the process, the check engine and other dashboard lights flashed randomly. After replacing the alternator and one of the battery cables that tested high resistance, we found that the circuitry in the throttle body assembly could not be reset. Another mechanic that I trust confirmed that it is common for other electronic devises to get fried when you have issues with the charging system.

Interesting, to say the least. Thanks for your insight, Steve. That definitely gives me a little more peace of mind.

Yet another reason why I love this site. Thanks for the help!