Scangauge shows 13.8volts - is that normal?

[stioc]

It's always shown 13.6-13.8volts while cruising. Is that normal? I'm used to seeing 14.2 or so when the alternator's charging.

 

The battery is brand new and it showed the same with the old battery too.

[shoesandsocks]

my scan gauge shows 14.0 right now if that helps bud

[edicer2]

it all depends i have seen them from 13.4 to almost 15 you should be fine. if it goes under 13 i would be worried.

[XPLORx4]

Nominal operating voltage for a "12V" automotive system is actually about 13.7VDC, plus or minus 0.1VDC.

 

This measurement should be made on a running engine with a FULLY (re)charged battery.

 

When a vehicle first starts the voltage at the battery will rise from the original 12.5-12.7 VDC to AT LEAST 14.1VDC. Then, as battery charge completes, the voltage will drop back to about 13.6-13.8 VDC. This usually happens within 5-10 minutes, assuming the battery was fully charged prior to the starting cycle, and the starting happened quickly (5 seconds or so of cranking).

Edited February 21, 2013 by XPLORx4

[stioc]

Ah cool! It's never gone under 13v while the engine is running, even with the lights/AC etc on.

 

I usually plug the Battery Tender in to keep the battery topped off when I don't drive it for a few days. I just wanted to double check so I didn't get stranded out in the boonies because of a dead alternator Thanks guys!