2005 Escape Electrical issue

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Dec 29, 2015 | 08:57 PM

Powers27

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2005 Escape Electrical issue

My escape currently is misfiring on cylinder 1, have replaced all front ignition coils, but not rear yet. Was driving home today and the instrument panel stopped working, radio turned off, the airbag light came on then the battery light. Let the car sit for about 15 mins in the driveway and everything came on just fine, however if you turn a/c on max battery light comes back on. Just replaced the alternator about 8 months ago and the battery about 5 months ago. Could it be the alternator again or something else?

Dec 29, 2015 | 11:35 PM

scott91370

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Dec 2008

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From: Burleson, Tx

Very possible alternator. I had two replacements in my Tribute go out in less than a week.

Take it to an auto parts store and have them check it.

Dec 30, 2015 | 07:28 AM

projectSHO89

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Joined: Jan 2004

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From: St Louis

Quote:

Could it be the alternator again or something else?

Could be a number of things, you have to diagnose it. Your symptoms are of a battery that went dead due to not getting charged.

Jan 2, 2016 | 06:53 AM

tomw

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Joined: Jan 2002

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From: suburban atlanta

You can do a basic test of alternator capacity by using a VOM connected to the battery terminals. With the engine running at idle, the voltage should be in the low 14v range.
Turn on the headlights and check again. If the alternator is working, it should be able to maintain the same voltage or near. The voltage will likely have a drop when the load is first added, but should regain the voltage after a few seconds.
Turn the blower motor on to HI, and check again. If the alternator will maintain the 14v range, it is producing enough current to run the headlights and blower at idle, and that should be more than sufficient, especially at speeds above idle.
tom