Vehicle keeps shutting off when transmission is shifted into gear and more?

Tiny
PENNY DEZSI
  • MEMBER
  • 1998 FORD RANGER
  • 6 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 150 MILES
Headlights are dim and the vehicle keeps shutting off when you put it into gear. Turn the heat on and the car stops.
Tuesday, December 6th, 2022 AT 2:48 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,328 POSTS
Hi,

It sounds like either a weak battery or the alternator isn't recharging it. Do me a favor. First, check to make sure the battery terminals are both clean and tight.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/everything-goes-dead-when-engine-is-cranked

If they are in good condition and tight, confirm the main ground to the engine block is in good condition as well. Keep in mind, my first suspect is a weak ground. The added load of the heater motor may be enough to cause the ground to fail, causing the engine to stall. It could be the battery or alternator as well.

If everything appears to be in good condition, then I need you to check the alternator output. This is very easy to do. All you will need is a voltmeter or a multimeter. Follow the directions in this link and let me know the results:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-alternator

If the alternator isn't producing what is needed, make sure the belt is in good condition and tight.

As far as the dim lights and stalling are concerned, most times dim lights are the result of what I mentioned, a faulty ground or weak battery. Try what I suggested and let me know the results.

Take care,

Joe

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Tuesday, December 6th, 2022 AT 5:31 PM

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