Shocking Question

[Bob_VT]

I work at a Chevrolet Dealership and drive a 02 Impala. Lately in the past two weeks I started getting static shocks when I exit the car.<br /><br />I spoke with a mechanic and he mentioned that there "might" be a bad diode in the alternator and he has seen this before. In the past when the alternator was replaced the static went away.<br /><br />I just wanted to know what everyone else thinks here. I am not going to change my car or parts nor will I add those dumb static straps. <br /><br />I was just curious because nothing I have done has changed. Since I am aware of it I will just be extra cautious or just face being zapped.<br /><br />Bob_VT

 

[jimr]

Re: Shocking Question

have them fix it under warranty

 

[neumanns]

Re: Shocking Question

I get static shock from all three of my vehicles when the air is dry...Ie; six months of the year while the freezing temps keep moisture at bay. I attribute it to sliding my but across the seat in this dry atmosphere. Maybe I also have three vehicles with bad diodes.

 

[all thumbs]

Re: Shocking Question

I remember hearing you build static up by moving across the seat while getting out of the vehicle. The problem was when re-fueling if your not discharged. When you grab the gas nozel and touch the tank that causes the discharge spark and can ignite the fuel.

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Shocking Question

Just a thought - you could try one of those anti-static fabric sprays on your vehical's seats. I think I've noticed some cars seem worse than others - it's got to be the seat material.<br /><br />Bad diodes seems awfully remote, especially if it happens with the engine off.

 

[TELMANMN]

Re: Shocking Question

I hope the mechanic is one you do not go to or is a very good friend as this is one urban legend I haven't heard before. As Neu manns said it is cause by lack of humidity during the dry winter months, and as you slide across the seat to get out you develope static electricity. I usually put my arm on the car instead of my hand when getting out. You still get shocked but not as bad. <br /> Also depends on your physical makeup as some get it worse then others(more electric personnelity)?

 

[phatmanmike]

Re: Shocking Question

your vehicle builds up static electricity as you drive, just by the vehicle moving through the air.<br /><br />mostly when the air is dry.<br /> my wifes suzuki GR vitara does this every time during winter.<br /><br />my honda civic does not do it ever and my wifes SUV was the first time i have seen it personally.<br /><br />its nothing bad with any stupid electrodes. he's retarded!<br /><br />its basic science. some cars more than others.

 

[BoatBuoy]

Re: Shocking Question

When you touch the door, touch it with the key and you won't get the shock.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Shocking Question

I agree it sounds absurd however it just recently started. Yes I am going to do the anti static spray.<br /><br />Bob

 

[bh357]

Re: Shocking Question

Just make sure you are touching some metal before you get out of the car, and keep your hand on the metal as you step out. This works for me.

 

[one more cast]

Re: Shocking Question

Our '97 Chevy Lumina really zaps you but................I get a charge out of it!..

 

[dolluper]

Re: Shocking Question

Bad diode you wouldn't run to far without a boost, maybe that's ok You can boost it yourself sparky

 

[levittownnick]

Re: Shocking Question

Without getting technical, static charge builds whenever 2 insulators pass each other, like air over fabric or fabric over fabric. The type of materials involved and the lower the humidity in the air are the 2 biggest factors in how much voltage is produced. Time and higher humidity discharge this charge (and so will you). Use of a fabric softner retains humidity in the fabric to help eliminate the charge. If you wipe down the seats with a dryer sheet (thoes things you put in a clothes dryer to soften clothes) once in a while especially when you notice a static problem it will eliminate the problem. You will not see static build-up in the summer because of the humidity unless you are in a very dry climate.

 

[rogerwa]

Re: Shocking Question

No offense but maybe your butt got bigger..

 

[Xcusme]

Re: Shocking Question

I heard a long time ago that it's the amount of carbon black that's used in the manufacture of the tires (it improves tire wear etc.) that causes it.<br /><br />One explanation is here: Link

 

[levittownnick]

Re: Shocking Question

Try searching the web for "triboelectric". It will answer most if not all your questions on static electricity and why you get schocked and what you can do about it.

 

[Realgun]

Re: Shocking Question

Do not waste you time with antistaic spary get the softner from the laundry room and spray that on the seats. Mixed with water and use a spray bottle.

 

[John Carpenter]

Re: Shocking Question

Correct....a little fabric softener will eliminate it. This is usually a wintertime problem.