1996 Ford Probe wont start, no power at all

1996 FORD PROBE
112,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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1996 Ford Probe mileage: 112,000.When I test drove my car it ran and started just fine, but about two weeks after I bought it it did not start at all it did not have any power what so ever; windows, stereo, lights, etc. When I want to start it I have to jump-start it and it will start well all day long, but when I let it sit all night it will run out of power over night. The thing that gets me is that when I bought it it went two weeks before it went completely dead and I just let it sit because I had no insurance on it, but now it loses all power just sitting all night. Do you have any idea what drains the power out of it? Thanks.

Feb 4, 2011 at 6:55 PM
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From what you tell us, it sounds like you may be having trouble with your charging system. Have your battery load tested and check the alternator output for voltage and amperage. You also may have a drain on the battery that, overnight, would result in a dead battery. Here is the procedure we use to isolate a battery drain. Remove negative battery cable from the battery. Using a 12-volt test light, hook one end to the negative battery post the other end to the negative battery cable you just disconnected. The test light will glow or "light" if there is a drain. If the "light or glow" is faint, that is probably normal draw for the clock or computer. If the "light or glow" is bright, then there is a large drain. That should be corrected. Now start removing and replacing the fuses one by one until the light goes out; that one will be the circuit with the drain. Remember to hold in the button in the door jam for the interior light
Feb 4, 2011 at 6:57 PM
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.