Could a improperly installed tail light cause my car to lose power?

Tiny
VALVAL63
  • MEMBER
  • 1994 FORD EXPLORER
Car loses power, idles erratically, headlights dim when at a stop. But when headlights aren't on, car runs fine when at a stop. Was side swiped and back tail light was replaced. Could that be the problem. Had diagnostic performed and they were dumbfounded as to why my vehicle presents with current problem.
Monday, January 2nd, 2012 AT 1:51 AM

5 Replies

Tiny
FIXITMR
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,990 POSTS
How is it improperly installed? Does it work right?
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Monday, January 2nd, 2012 AT 1:54 AM
Tiny
VALVAL63
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  • 2 POSTS
I don't know if it was properly installed since i'm a novice. My dad saw all my lights dimming while my car was erratically idling. The odd thing is, this only happens when my lights are on
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Monday, January 2nd, 2012 AT 2:10 AM
Tiny
FIXITMR
  • MECHANIC
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Is your alternator charging ok? Do the lights brighten when you rev engine?
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Monday, January 2nd, 2012 AT 3:02 AM
Tiny
VALVAL63
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The mechanic said he ran a diagnostic and everything was fine. Would he of checked my alternator with a routine diagnostic? And yes when I rev the engine the lights brighten
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Monday, January 2nd, 2012 AT 3:14 AM
Tiny
FIXITMR
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  • 9,990 POSTS
Ok, some sleuthing says you have a bad ground somewhere. Like from battery to body/engine?
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Monday, January 2nd, 2012 AT 5:24 AM

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