My 2000 Ford Windstar with newer battery does something crazy. I had the battery and charging system checked tonight, and it all passes.
Most of the time it starts great….and on COLD WISCONSIN mornings it cranks fine and fires up. BUT, if the security lights happen to come on for 10 minutes, or if you leave the doors open and radio for 10 minutes… you will probably come back to a DEAD battery. It clicks…but that’s it. It may even give the slightest effort at a crank, but it won’t turn it over. AGAIN…. Great most of the time, including COLD winter mornings. A little draw after it’s turned off though….and it’s likely DEAD.
Help please!
by the way...when he tested the battery it was at 89% charge. While he thought that could be a tad low, he still announced it as passing the test. ...and they sell batteries, this was at a Battery Plus store.
(When I had the battery and charge system tested he mentioined the bearings were starting to make noise in the alternator, and the belt might be loose if it hadn't been tended to in a long time (it hasn't), but the readings from the alternator and regulator were excellent.)


(This post was edited by krosspen on Mar 12, 2008, 7:51 PM)

The battery should not go dead in ten minutes if its good.
How old is the battery?
If more than 3+ years old,purchase a new one .

Take the battery/vehicle somewhere where they know how to diagnose them and see what they say.
If the alternator bearings are making noise and its verified,replace that before it lets you down.( and it will )
Also have the serpentine belt replaced with the new alternator and CHECK the belt tensioner for wear.

If this were my vehicle,from what you describe, I definitely would replace the battery.

JIm