QuestionI was in my car yesterday, warmed it up for 15 minutes then drove to my destination, which was approximately 4miles away. Upon arriving at my destination, I sat in the car with the engine running and heat on while listening to the factory CD player waiting to pick up a friend from work. Upon waiting, the car shut down instantaneously. It just dead stopped. So I tried to start it and all I got was the sound of the car trying to turn over. I noticed that the radio and the signal lights and the panel lights weren't working at all. Of course I didn't hear the fuel pump either. But I believe that something electrical may be at the helm of the problem. Can you tell me what is wrong?
AnswerUnfortunately, it's rare for me to be able to lead someone right to the specific cause of their problem. Usually, it's necessary to check things that could cause the symptoms in a manner that will lead us in general terms to the type of problem present and then to the specific problem.
In this case, if I understand correctly, we have the following symptoms:
1. engine stopped running
2. engine cranks but will not restart
3. radio inop
4. turn signals inop
5. dash lamps inop
6. cannot hear fuel pump
Symptoms 3, 4, and 5 have no potential causes other than electrical problems. The other symptoms can be caused by electrical problems as well. So, indeed, it's reasonable to start checking for an electrical problem.
First check all fuses. Start with the underhood fuse box and the small compartment at the positive battery post (if there is one). Next, check those in the dash fuse box.
As an additional piece of information, can you tell me whether the engine cranks slower or faster than normal?
