1997 Ford Escort Battery light

1997 FORD ESCORT
130,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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DJT603
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
My battery light came on today, I drove it around and it was started and stopped several times. I brought it home and tried to sart it up again and everything else worked but it wouldnt start. Is this just me need ing a new battery or am I looking at bigger problems.
Dec 23, 2008 at 10:14 PM
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ZACKMAN
  • CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
  • 4,202 POSTS
Battery light coming on means that the alternator is not giving the right amount of electricity that the engine needs to operate. As you have been driving it around, starting and stopping several times, the battery is now out of power (as you have been draining the battery while driving the car).

You need to fully charge the battery before using the car again. Do not attempt to install the battery to another car so the alternator will charge the battery, you will need to use an external battery charger. Once the battery is fully charged, take the vehicle to an auto parts store to have your entire electrical (starting and charging) system checked. On the way, try not to use any unnecessary accessories (radio, heater, lights, etc....). I suspect either bad connection from the alternator to the battery or bad alternator itself...
Dec 24, 2008 at 11:41 PM
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