QuestionHi, completely brain rattled over this one...I tried to start my car this afternoon and the battery was completely dead.
So I assumed perhaps the wife left her passanger door open slightly enough to keep the interior light on, however I could not tell because my daughter had already opened the passenger door before I realised there was no power.
So got jump cables out and used mother in laws car, started no problem. Decided to drive a few blocks to charge the battery, but it ended up dying on me, never stuttered or anything just quietly died on me. Got other car with jump cables, started no problem drove home, and it cut it again only because I was curious as why it died last time, so I switched on the fan as I pulled up the drive...car died, I watched the battery level meter go from 60% to nothing it cut out soon as I put the fan on.
So got cables again and this time it wouldn't start at all. To add to the problems my key is stuck in the ignition I can not get it free at all. This had been a problem before but lately has been fine until it died. I dont know if the key is stuck because there is no power I dont know I hope you do. Oh btw the key has a release button aswell that I need to press before I can release the key.
Now this is the thing, when I put the cables back on for the 3rd time (When it wouldn't start) I realised that I had put the power cables wrong way round (+ on the - and - on the +) I noticed when I seen little smoke (My excuse was it was getting dark I couldn't see properly) anyway I immediately corrected the cables, now because my keys are in the ignition despite it being on the ignition off position (at first click on ignition) my headlamps are on as long as I have the other car powering it through the cables.
The headlamps stay on until you fully take out the keys out of the ignition, so I had another used battery which was ok, I connected this one and connected the cables, but it still wont start, the headlamps are fully bright (whilst still connected through cables and other car) but the ignition lights wont come on except the clock light, not even the interior light will come on. The only thing that powers is the headlamps and the clock light and it wont even display the time.
Now I wonder if because I put the cables on the wrong way it may have blew something, so I checked all the fuses and they were all fine.
I am completely baffled, headlamps will light up bright, but the ignition is completely dead.
I would seriously appreciate any feedback.
Regards
Jamie
AnswerJamie,
First, replace the alternator and have the battery checked for damage since it was hooked up reverse. If it is good get a full charge on it. Now, with a good alternator and battery give the starter a try. Check out the systems. You could have blown a bunch of fuses by hooking it up backwards. I have seen many a fuse pop when one has been hooked up backwards. Now, after all that has been checked and if the vehicle will turn over but not start it is time to be looking at the computer. Yes, the computer can be damaged by reversal of the jumper cables. So, do the alternator and battery and then work down the list and if you have problems email me back.
