Hey Gang,

Happy Excursion owner here but am looking for and assistance with my daily driver. I have attempted help from vehicle specific forums but zero help. FTE is the best and have always received ample help from the gang so here it is...

1998 Mercury Sable, daily driver, 142k 3.0L, The car has been great up until now. I drive 32 miles to work, all highway. Recently the car would kill power for a few seconds after turning on any HVAC systems. Power would come back and driving continued.

The last time this happened was just as I was pulling in to work, the power was on but the electric power steering assist was gone. Shut the car off and went into work. Came out and nothing.

I disconnected the battery thinking maybe this may "reset" the car. Connected the battery and turned the key, dash lights came on, turned the key to start and click, then dead. Returned the key to the off position, tried again and no dash lights, no radio, no clock,nothing. Jiggle the key in the tumbler a bit and the power came back but a bit week, tried to start and dead. no click this time.

I have replaced the transmission position sensor, the ignition module in the column and the ignition key and tumbler as well as checked all the grounds. No change..

Fire away gang and thanks in advance for the help...

 

Sooooo, checked the battery cables and they "looked" fine but still no start after new battery install. While in a nice quiet garage I leaned into to turn the ignition on and could hear some tel-tale crackling coming from the battery area. Grabbed the battery cable and gave it a little wiggle, lights come on and fuel pumps starts buzzing.

Removed and replace the -battery cable, new battery and all is well, except for the fact that now the alternator was not charging. The mega fuse on the front of the fuse compartment in the engine bay was bad. Replaced it and all is back to normal..

 

What every tool box needs is a $5 test light from your local auto parts store. Use this to see exactly where you do and do not have voltage.

 

I have one now...