Chrysler Repair: new battery, new alternator, car still wont work, battery clamps, fuse box

Question
I have a 2000 chrysler 300m. My dad put in both the new part and it drove for about 15mins. then he said the lights starting flashing and then it shut off.  I wouldn't take a jump and still not working.  What could be the problem?

Answer
Hi Candice,
It sounds like a very basic electrical issue that affects the entire system. I would wonder about the major electrical connections which are: the battery clamps and the wires connected to the clamps (check for oxidized clamp to battery post surfaces/corrosion of the wire to clamp connection). Also verify whether the other end of the black wires that are connected to the - post clamp are clean/shiny and thightly connected to the body at a point near the fuse box that is under the hood on the driver side. You will want to remove the air cleaner housing to get at the battery to check the above and also to trace the black and red wires that I describe.
Then check that the red wires at the battery + post remote jump point (on the driver side strut tower) are shiny and tightly connected. Check the red wire at the alternator all along its path to be sure it isn't shorted to the engine or body. When you are doing these checks it would be smart to disconnect the - post battery clamp so that you aren't dealing with 'hot' + wires from the battery which can cause burns should they accidentally touch a point on the body and thus short out the battery. Once you have assured yourself that these basic connections are clean/shiny/tight then try various devices (lamps, open doors, accessiories/starter) to see what is or is not working. Then if the problem still exists, you will need a voltmeter or a 12v glow light to further examine the electrical circuit to find where it is breaking down.
Roland