Electrical Cutout?

[fricker66]

Well, figured I had better post my car's problem so that I can get some help and be able to drive the car home tonight! This morning as I went to get in my car, I noticed the interior lights quickly faded out and that I no longer had electrical power. I went ahead and put my laptop bag in back and shut the door. When the door shut, I got back full electricity. Everything started fine and idled as it should. Made my 15 mile drive with no problems. However, my radio did lose power a couple of times. Luckily, the ignition never failed! Got to the garage here at work and checked the battery connections. All snug and don't seem to be the problem. Interstate battery is nearing the end of it's warranty. However, I've never seen a bad battery give these problems. Something would seem to be loose. Any thoughts on what else to check? I'll be driving home late tonight and hope it doesn't shut off on the interstate. Any thoughts and suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!

 

[smcallis]

Battery connections were a good check. You mentioned tightness but make sure you check for corrosion as well. Particularly where the wire goes into the terminal. The connection at the starter is also known to be problem. Keep us posted.

 

[fricker66]

No corrision. Had the battery out about three weeks ago to replace a headlight bulb. Cleaned the battery then. (no real corrision before that either) Would the starter connection cause a complete power loss? In hoping this doesn't become some electrical gremlin, I'm wondering if it might be the battery. I've just never seen a bad battery give these symptoms. Keep the suggestions coming!

 

[smcallis]

Personally I've never had the starter connection go but have heard it causes similar behavior problems. I agree, it doesn't sound like a battery problem.

 

[BeatDaSHO]

hmm...weird cause i just had the same problem about 4 days ago. if you find out what it was, hook me up.

Greg