Battery light

2005 MERCURY MARQUIS
96,000 MILES
Avatar
ELISEMADORE
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Battery light comes on one minute after starting car. Alternator checks fine 14 volts.
Nov 16, 2018 at 4:24 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
SQM
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 6,383 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hello,

If the alternator is providing the correct out put, then the light is on likely due to a wiring issue.
It could be as simple as a loose wiring in the circuit or a connector could be loose as well.

I have attached the charging system wiring schematics (look below). Check all the wirings make sure they are secured. Also be sure to check the ground for the charge indicator harness.

Here is a helpful article on how to test wirings:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-wiring

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
Sep 14, 2021 at 10:51 AM
Avatar
DANNY L
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 5,648 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hello, I'm Danny.

If the alternator checks out fine its possible you may have a weak, failing, or bad cell in the battery. You might want to perform a battery load test. Most local auto parts stores will test your battery for free. Here are a few tutorials for you to view for batteries:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-car-battery-works

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/symptoms-of-a-bad-car-battery

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/car-battery-load-test

If your car has an unsealed battery it might be low on water. I've attached picture steps below on how to remove and replace the battery on your Mercury. Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
Sep 14, 2021 at 11:02 AM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.