my battary seened dead,i charged it car started 3x then seemed dead i charged it again wont start,

1997 MERCURY SABLE
100,000 MILES
Avatar
KBULLLOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
i took off pos cable while running to test alternator(i know now,dumb)
what damage could i have done,how can i test for damage. car won't turn over now
Jun 15, 2012 at 9:49 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 30,869 POSTS
So does it crank no start or no crank no start?
Jun 15, 2012 at 9:56 PM
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 75,992 POSTS
Have the battery and alternator load tested-start here
Jun 15, 2012 at 9:57 PM
Avatar
KBULLLOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
the car does not crank only thing i hear now is a metallic clatter sounds like it may be coming from the starter but before i took off the pos it only sounded like a low battery and would start if i charged it
Jun 15, 2012 at 10:44 PM
Avatar
KBULLLOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
i am afraid i fried the computer
Jun 15, 2012 at 10:45 PM
Avatar
RASMATAZ
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 75,992 POSTS
Either you have a bad battery and connections or starter motor-
Jun 15, 2012 at 10:52 PM
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 30,869 POSTS
If the starter is inop i would make sure the battery cables are clean and tight.Also make sure the battery tests good and is fully charged.
Jun 15, 2012 at 10:59 PM
Avatar
KBULLLOCK
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
the battery tests good, i was wondering if there is a way to see if the computer is working without a tester obd2 it seemed to be an alternator problem(as it sounded funny) I think i damaged something as the problem seems totally different now
Jun 15, 2012 at 11:07 PM
Avatar
SATURNTECH9
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 30,869 POSTS
Have you checked all the fuses?A obd2 code reader would be nice to see if it linked to the ecm.
Jun 16, 2012 at 12:01 AM
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.