2003 Taurus only starts with boost but alt and bat are good

Asked by jeremylisa Jan 12, 2011 at 08:33 AM about the 2003 Ford Taurus SE

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

I can only start my car with a boost.  The alt charges the battery with 12.6 volts and the battery has a full charge.  When I try to start the car without a boost, the dash lights are weak and there is clicking that comes from the relays next to the battery.  Everything will work until I try to engage the starter.  That is when the clicking starts and the dashlight go weak.  But no action from the starter.  When I attach the booster cables, everything works and the car fires up with no issues.  I can drive it and as soon as I turn it off, I need a boost to start.  Any ideas?  

1 Answer
10,085

Mike answered 13 years ago

Full charge on a 12 volt battery is actually 12.8. If your alternator is only charging at 12.6 volts it has failed. Charging voltage should be in the neighborhood of 14.5 volts and within a couple tenths of that with the heater fan on full and headlights on. Take your car to your local Advance Auto Parts and they will test the system for free.

Mark helpful

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