my transmission will not shift into second when the intrument cluster is acting up also the headlights go out
Asked by angelchild Feb 19, 2016 at 06:31 PM about the 2005 Pontiac Montana
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
why is it that my headlights go out and the transmission wont shift into second when the instrument cluster is acting up
4 Answers
sixfootsix_car_guy answered 8 years ago
It sounds like you have an electrical problem, unfortunately something that Pontiacs are notorious for having. I had a 2 year old Pontiac Grand Prix in High School and it did the same thing as you are mentioning in your post. Have you had a mechanic do a diagnostic on it yet? Any "dummy" lights on? Any aftermarket wiring (new stereo, dvd, or nav systems) done?
sixfootsix_car_guy answered 8 years ago
Electrical problems can be some of the most expensive problems to fix because of the labor hours involved in tracking down the issue. I would recommend only taking the van to a REPUTABLE mechanic, or someone that you trust. This will ensure that you are not taken advantage of.
assure the battery has 12.5 volts at least...can pull at least 50 amps...is free of corrosion, and the Battery cables are NEW...and the black cable connecting to the block is solid~ use a wirebrush to get to the 50 amp capacity~
the new lead free batteries (tin-anitmony alloy) are designed to last 10 years only...reduced capacity is unacceptable...get a new one every few years~
