Intermittent No Crank 1996 850T wagon 89k mi

Post by **mr_dave** » 27 Aug 2007, 18:21

I have an intermittent no crank problem that includes setting off the door locks, alarm and random dashboard lights. I can't even hear the starter click when I try to start, but dashboard lights dim and door locks click when I try to crank. The car starts easily if I let it sit for a few hours. The battery is 6 months old. With the car running I measure 12.5 V at the battery posts and yet the alternator says 14V. Is this telling me to replace the alternator or should I be thinking about something else?

My car is possessed. Thanks in advance.
Dave

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 27 Aug 2007, 18:55

One of three things. Check the battery leads. Clean them thoroughly and add the anti corrosion - as my daughter would say - majiggers. Check the ground onto the frame and the block for corrosion. Clean as necessary.

If those don't work purchase a new electrical portion of the ignition switch. A relatively cheap and easy repair.

...Lee

Post by **mr_dave** » 03 Sep 2007, 10:47

Lee,
Since I installed the battery myself 6 months ago (and I did use the thingamajiggers and cleaned the posts well), I knew it couldn't be the battery cables. I bought the ignition switch, installed it and the car wouldn't start.

So.....after I cleaned the battery cables again, the car started right up. Sometimes, I even outsmart myself.

Thanks for your help,
Dave H

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 03 Sep 2007, 13:17

I'm glad it worked for you. You can take solace in the fact that your ignition switch was going to fail on you anyway - it seems that they all do. You just got to it before it could strand you somewhere.

...Lee

Klausc · Post by **Klausc** » 04 Sep 2007, 14:01

Now that you are running again, your alternator output sounds fine. It should be around 14.7V with the battery at 12V.

Klaus