Electrical issues (2 or 3) with Mazda Tribute 2002

Hello there, there is a way to check if the alternator works, just start the engine and run it at idle for a minute or so just to get the engine warmed up. while the engine is running, try to remove the positive terminal cable from the battery (note: no lights, radio, or any accessories operating). the alternator should be sufficiently providing power to the engine. if it dies down the charging might be weak. another way is purchase a digital multimeter and setting it to dc voltage testing. put the tester prongs on the correct terminal( positive to red positive and negative to black negative) test the voltage prior to starting. usually it shall read 12. 3 or a tad higher. remove the tester prongs from the battery terminal and start the engine. then place it back on. the reading shall read 14V plus without any load. sometimes it might read 15V w/c is usually over for certain cars. then turn on all accessories: headlights, aircondition/heater and etc. if the reading on the tester indicates 12.8V and above 13V your charging system is ok.(all this test is on engine idle)

For the battery, my experience is that 2 years of battery duty is quite good already. unfortunately, during these span of duty the battery might give a 12V reading but its strength is not enough to sustain the load. the voltage of the battery is the physical attribute so to speak and ampere is the power or strength of the battery.

for your accessories that died, I think something tripped when you jump started it. but the accessories are easily traceble. I think what's important is keeping the engine in tip top condition and won't let you down during hard times.

hope some of this helps you.