Car starts, runs, loses instrument cluster, then stalls and will not start

KINGMW092811

MEMBER
2002 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER
2.0L
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
125,000 MILES

I started the car this morning to warm it up. Ten minutes later I returned to the car no longer running. I tried to restart the car but got no click no nothing. The interior lights dimmed heavily when I tried to turn the key forward. I later jump started the car with another vehicle. It ran for two to three minutes before I lost all function of the instrument cluster in the dash. It continued to run for two minutes or so before stalling out. I tried to restart it and nothing not even a click. I checked fuses but did not see anything wrong. I also unhooked the battery cleaned all terminal and made sure they were clean and tight. What could be the problem?

5 Replies

JIS001

MECHANIC
3,408 POSTS

Have the battery charged up by your local parts store. Once fully charged up have the alternator checked for proper charging. Your local parts store can do that for you. If you want to test it yourself then here is a link on how to test the alternator:

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

If you are going to do it yourself make sure you have the battery fully charged for the test to be accurate.

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Friday, November 17th, 2017 AT 10:52 PM

KINGMW092811

MEMBER
4 POSTS

Let's pretend that jumping the car will not get the vehicle started long enough to drive it yo the local parts store. Is there a way to get the alternator tested by removing it and taking it to the parts store? I guess I am still confused why I lost the cluster in dash but still have use of the radio, lights, and the interior lights. I have had the car for ten years and over the last five years I have had to put four batteries in, the most recent was a year ago but the alternator tested out fine after the new battery was installed. Thank you for the insight.

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Saturday, November 18th, 2017 AT 1:06 AM

JIS001

MECHANIC
3,408 POSTS

If the battery is low and alternator is not charging, vehicle will not stay running when you jump it. Parts stores will not test the alternator outside the vehicle. That would be done with the re-builder who has the equipment for that.

The information given earlier is what you need to start with. You need a fully charge battery, terminals clean and tight, and properly working alternator.

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Saturday, November 18th, 2017 AT 12:50 PM

KINGMW092811

MEMBER
4 POSTS

I got very lucky. Upon further review the battery and alternator were both good and tested out. The small serpentine belt that goes on the alternator had snapped not allowing the alternator to do its job. Got a new belt and regained all power to the cluster and the battery is now being charged properly again. Thank you for your knowledge on the subject.

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Sunday, November 19th, 2017 AT 3:40 AM

JIS001