Mazda 6 battery keeps going flat

[RIAD_BSC]

I am a total novice when it comes to engines, so would appreciate any advice.

I have a 03 Mazda 6, 70k miles. I put a new battery in it less than a year ago (during the really cold weather).

Over the weekend, the battery suddenly went flat in the space of 5 mins (my wife turned the engine off after a short drive.... 5 mins later she tried to start it again and the battery was totally flat).

We got it jump-started, and drove off up the road. She turned on the headlights after a minute, and the engine cut out at the next traffic lights and the car wouldn't start again (battery appeared to be flat once more.)

Jump started it again and drove home with no lights on. Realised that every time the engine is switched off, or when you attempt to put on the headlights especially when the car is not moving, you cannot get the engine started again and battery appears to go flat.

Funnily enough, the radio doesn't seem to have the same effect, just the headlights from what I can see.

Someone told me it could be the alternator. I understand this is the thing that charges up the battery while you drive.

Does this sound feasible? And has anyone any idea how much it should cost me to get the alternator replaced and fitted?

Thanks

 

[joeysully]

yes most likely the Alternator - sounds like its charging a bit but not enough to keep up with the lights.

 

[mathepac]

Either the alternator as already suggested, a loose belt or the battery is shot and can't be charged.

Any warning lights on the dash-board (miniature battery in red, etc?)

 

[SparkRite]

Before you spend any money on it, just make sure that the terminal connections on the battery are clean and tight as bad connections could also cause the symptoms you describe.