2001 Chevy Blazer gauges bouncing and dash lights flashing

POMAJBO1

MEMBER
2001 CHEVROLET BLAZER
6 CYL
4WD
AUTOMATIC
140,000 MILES

My Blazer refused to start a few months ago, but seemed like a fluke, cause it didn't happen again. Yesterday, it wouldn't start and made a clicking noise, which didn't seem to originate from the battery or starter. At the same time, the gauges were bouncing back and forth and all the dashboard lights were flashing crazily. After jumping and starting, I tried to drive to the auto store for testing of battery/alternator to see if these were the problem. Blazer stalled and problem repeated. After jump, I went directly home- 2 miles- and the flashing/bouncing was horrible and I had little power. What are the likely causes of this. Battery is now probably fried, but doubtfully the only issue. Seems this is a side effect of real issue. An suggestions would be helpful so I can get it to the right type of repair person. Thanks

1 Reply

MIKE H R

MECHANIC
3,094 POSTS

My first impression is that the problem could be in the altinator. With the battery low you will get a clicking sound from the starter soloniod. With the altinator not putting out much charge the car would only run with what was put in the battery when it was jump started. Try charging the battery with it the positive side of the battery disconnected from the vehicle. The barrery should be charged on low and left for a day if possible. With it charging on low the battery has a deeper recovery than being charged on high. After the battery has had a charge reconnect and see if the vehicle does the same thing. If the altinator has a problem the barrery will drain again over time.