Car cut off on me mid drive acted like it was an alternator, lights dimmed, wouldn't change gears out of first, ac cut off, kept dropping power then picking back up, dropping power picking back up, abs, esp, coolant and battery light all came on. Turned the car off at first it only clicked but wouldn't start, then shut that out wouldn't do anything. I've already had the RCM repaired.

 

Battery, alternator or ground cable maybe ?

 

Alternator was rebuilt about 2 years ago and battery was just replaced 4 days ago. I plan to have them both checked today though.

 

Sounds like a ground issue. I would start with the battery since you just replaced it?

 

Perhaps where it attaches to the firewall make sure it is a clean connection and I would replace the cable. It won't hurt anything and it may be an inexpensive fix. The cable may be corroded internally?

 

All that is good. I'm going to have the battery charged and check the alternator. I wouldn't doubt that it's the issue. I ordered one in as the other was rebuilt and is now out of warranty. I'll let you know.

 

Had to replace the alternator twice now the thing idles like I put a roller cam in it. Time to check for a vacuum leak.

 

For gods sake dont go all over the map. Get a voltmeter that plugs in the cigarette outlet and MONITOR the voltage while driving and having issues, CHEAP on ebay like 10$. Been saying this for ever..Woody

 

Will do and I appreciate the tip, but I'm also thinking that may not fix air leak I'm hearing from under the hood.

 

 

AMEN. I've TRIED to explain to people that if the system voltage is up over 13.5-14.2, the alternator is doing its job, If you are driving around and it's 12 or less, it's time to look at the alternator.
When I explain that, I get stuff like: "No, Im sure the alternator is fine..." or "a friend says it's my ignition switch..."

I think I'm burned out from helping people.

 

 

It was. The seal on the intake part that rests on the maf was messed up.

 

Do you mean the doughnut?
That is often cut and ruined.

 

Yes, the doughnut, now she's running smooth.