1998 Ford Escort Dim Lights Then Dies

1998 FORD ESCORT
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TWHALEN
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I was driving down the road and my dashboard lights went dim and then my headlights went dim. My RPM gage droped to zero even though my car was still running. It took about 3-5 min and then my car died and I couldn't get it started again...

I tried to have my brother jump me and it still wouldn't turn over...it sounds like it wants too, but it can't!

Please help with any suggestions you have!

Thanks so much!
Dec 11, 2006 at 5:08 AM
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INDYUKE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 416 POSTS
Did the check engine light come on? Are you able to scan the computer for any codes? There is a possibility that the alternator failed, in which case vehicle operation became solely the battery's responsibility which worked for a while until the battery died. If it was an old battery, the strain may have destroyed it. Bad batteries become a black hole and suck up any power from someone tyring to jump you not allowing any juice to reach the starter. It's also impossible to recharge them. Try testing the battery and scanning the computer for any fault codes.
Dec 21, 2006 at 6:13 PM
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BRUCE HUNT
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 3,754 POSTS
Check the belt on the car. Is it there?
Dec 22, 2006 at 2:15 AM
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SERVICE WRITER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,123 POSTS
I think Indyuke And Bruce are on the right path. My guess the battery may be original, most go about five years, but Fords go further. First guess is battery, second is battery and alternater. but don't overlook a cable problem.
Dec 23, 2006 at 12:19 PM

Suggested Repair

Test the battery and charging system, since a failed alternator can drain the battery until the car dies and will not jump-start. Also inspect the drive belt and battery cables, and scan for fault codes.

Conversation Summary

A 1998 Ford Escort ZX2 with about 104,000 miles had dim dash lights and headlights, the tachometer dropped to zero while the engine was still running, then the car died after a few minutes and would not restart or jump-start. Experts suggested a failed alternator, a worn or damaged battery, a missing or failed drive belt, or a battery cable problem, and recommended testing the battery, scanning for codes, and checking the belt and cables.

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