Chevrolet Repair: Engine goes off on engagement of gear, chevy corsica, 1990 chevy corsica

Question
Dear Autohelp,

I have a 1990 Chevy Corsica which has been running well until recently the battery would suddenly run down overnight during a cold weather. When the car is jump started, if the car is restarted, the engine would go off as soon as either the reverse or drive gear is engaged. I recently took it in for check up and was to told that there is a "12V draw in system audible circuit that covers courtesy lights, horn and audible sounds". To enable me drive the car temporarily until I find a reliable auto electrician, the fuse was disconnected. BUT this does not explain why the engine would suddenly go off on the engegement of gears and this is the more embarrassing one as it would happen right in the middle of a highway and would not move until several hours.
Are these problems related and what is your suggestion? I need help as I can no longer rely on this car.
Thanks,
Ifeoma

Answer
I would make sure that the charging system is fully operating correctly and that the battery is fully charged.

If the charging system and battery are WEAK this will cause your problem.

Have both the charging system and battery tested.


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