Q: Car battery light constantly goes on and off.
I go to start my car by a boost. Once the car is started and boost cables are taken off the car battery light comes on, revs up on its own till battery light goes back off, then repeats the same process. Sometimes she even shuts off.
However, when the car is still running and we take the battery posts off, the alternator is able to run the car fine on its own. Many people tell me different things from; battery problems, alternator problems, and even wiring problems.
More information would be great!
My car has 180000 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.
The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our
terms of service
for more details
Get an instant quote for your car
Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing
What others are asking
Car sounds like it's choking
A choking sound is a common indicator of a engine not receiving enough fuel. In 2006 Cadillac's the fuel pumps have been known to fail prematurely. I would suggest that a properly trained technician test the fuel system pressure and...
Brakes bad and car running rough
Hi, the first thing to do is to figure out why the Check Engine light is on. A certified technician will be able to hook up a computer to the car which will read the DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) which...
Noise coming from front left side of engine.
Hello. Most of the time when this noise occurs from this engine, it is a timing chain (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/timing-chain-replacement) problem. To isolate this, I usually remove the engine drive belts (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/serpentine-drive-belt-replacement) and run the engine to see if the noise disappears....
I smell gas in my car! What can that be?
You should have the complete fuel system to include the vapor system checked for any leaks. You may have a leaking seal on top of the fuel tank that is leaking vapor that is getting into the passenger compartment.
Engine light and bad gears
When you disconnect the battery, the PCM (powertrain control module) looses it's stored information about your driving habits. Believe it or not, the car learns how you drive, and tries to adapt to your style, so things may not go...
Overheating at idle but blowing cool air. Also when I press the gas it cools it down. What could be the issue?
Hi There, Overheating with the AC on is generally caused by a couple of possibilities. When the AC compressor (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/ac-compressor-replacement) is beginning to fail, this may incur an increased load on the motor as it works harder than usual to...
Variable tumble control system, not really sure how to pinpoint what I need to do. Someone told me I need a new spark delay valve
There is a Mazda Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) involving the Variable Tumble Control System (VTCS) on your model. The issue in the TSB involved the mitigation of noise caused by the system and that mitigation involved re-programming of the controls....
I took out my aftermarket anti theft system how can I reprogram it to be able to start my 2003 ford Explorer
If the check engine light is on, the diagnostic starts there, that is the Trouble Codes have to be downloaded and interpreted, especially in your circumstance as it is not clear from your inquiry that the no start is related...
Related articles
How Long Does a Car Battery Last?
The life of your car battery depends on how long it can hold its charge, and is capable of being recharged. Once it can’t...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Battery Cable
If you experience problems starting and powering the car or find corrosion on the battery terminals, you may need to replace a battery cable.
How To Jumpstart Your Car
A how-to guide to jumpstart your vehicle in the event of a dead battery. You'll need jumper cables, safety glasses, and a properly starting car.
Browse other content
Maintenance
Cities