I was driving home tonight when I noticed that my lights were getting dim. I seemed to be losing power but I was still driving ok. Then the wipers stopped working and the windows wouldn't roll up and down. The closer I got to home the less power I had. I pretty much just coasted home. My battery light went on at this point. I was going to pull over and walk the rest of the way home and when I braked I got a surge of power. Thats how I made it the rest of the way home. When I turn off the van the lights wouldn't turn off and the van wouldn't restart. My husband disconnected the battery so it wouldn't drain overnight. I guess tomorrow we will have to get it towed. Anyone have any ideas what this could be? By the way, we just replaced the battery a few months ago so I don't think that is the problem.
Thanks
2007-04-27 15:50:41 · 6 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Sounds like your alternator has failed, from the symptoms you describe. Whenever the charging system fails on modern vehicles, funny electrical gremlins have a way of showing up. I strongly recommend replacing with the more expensive, but more reliable Ford/Motorcraft alternator from the dealer. To replace this part is only three 15mm bolts securing the altermator to the mounting bracket. Removing the belt might be a little tricky if you plan on doing this job yourself. You'll need a 13mm wrench to access the belt tensioner from underneath. Hope this helps.
2007-04-27 16:00:46 · answer #1 · answered by Rakel 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It seems odd that when you applied the brake you regained some power.
Aside from the afore mentioned alternator, you may want to make sure the battery cable terminals are clean and free of corrosion on the inside part that slips onto the battery post.
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You may also want to check the negative battery cable at the engine block. It may be corroded also and not getting good contact the the engine. Especially if it's got an aluminum engine block.
2007-04-27 16:13:00 · answer #2 · answered by Mr. KnowItAll 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i would guess the alternator and check if it (the alternator, not the van) is still under warranty and if you have a shoddy mechanic like i did when i had this problem, make sure he checks the wiring harness also because my mechanic sent me away with a recharged battery. the alternator was puttingout plenty of power but little to none of it was getting tothe battery
2007-04-27 15:55:20 · answer #3 · answered by montgomery 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Alternator....Get a jump and take it too local autoparts store. They can run a test on it while it still on the car, free of charge. Also have them check the battery. When the alternator fails, but car is on the battery.
2007-04-27 16:45:45 · answer #4 · answered by onefinesacaman 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sounds like alternator, except the brake part????..........Nuf Said
2007-04-27 15:54:24 · answer #5 · answered by Elo Fudpucker 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
lights flash when charging
2015-01-20 11:43:03 · answer #6 · answered by Juanita 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋