[Yes I've read the electrical gremlins thread]

So,

Every about 10th time I start the engine of our GP (1.2 8v), the charge warning light stays on and the ePAS isn't energised. If I switch it off and restart it, everything works perfectly straight away, no warning lights. Even more oddly, even when the charge light is on, there is still 14.3V at the battery. This voltage doesn't change between when the light is on and the light is off.

No other symptoms at all (other than possibly an intermittent slight screech on startup which doesn't seem to be at the same time as this issue).

The original problem was christmas tree lights on dashboard and no ePAS while driving, which new battery and new-to-the-car alternator solved. The old alternator was badgered.

• New battery
• Replacement (original but second hand) alternator (definitely works, 14.3V while running)
• Cleaned alternator mounting points and cables
• Cleaned earth near clutch, earth near battery, and earth under air box
• Checked all fuses
• Cursed a lot

Any thoughts?

Is this alternator the exact same part as the old one (same brand / serial etc)?

It appeared to be identical in every respect... but having said that I didn't check exact part numbers. It's branded Denso. I have heard issues about crappy alternators... but what I can't get my head round is why the charge warning light is on even though the charging voltage is present?

Warning light is controlled via D+ voltage (small cable on alternator) probaly this alternator is bad too (or wrong part) or there is a problem with D+ cable