when I turn the key to start my 03 Thunderbird lights on dash go out and nothing happens, Batt is good, fuses good, any suggestions?

Asked by rigid May 09, 2013 at 12:10 PM about the 2003 Ford Thunderbird Premium RWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

This car was a victim of water damage, it looked like the water was up to the spare tire    
Put in key dash lights go on fine turn key to start- dash lights go out nothing happens,
I have just purchased and starting to work on it.
Thanks,  Richard

7 Answers

177,545

Some cars shut off all circuits during start up. Electronics don't like low voltage and spikes. Check the condition of the battery as Tom said. If you have power, check for voltage at the small wire on the starter motor when the key is in the "Start" position.

I have checked all the standard items, Battery (new) voltage all connections ect. fuses and connections, starter works when jumped between sol. terminals.

48,955

here is a link to a wiring diagram if you would like to use it to find your problem http://www.fordtechservice.dealerconnection.com/vdirs/protech/global/default.asp

2 people found this helpful.

I have the Shop manual, and the added electrical manual, but lack some of the tools. my code reader comes up with "E" which I guess to be error.

3,695

this car may end up being a electrical nightmare, because of the forementioned water damage.

I am expecting to have lots of fun. Got it for a good price, no corrosion but I know what you mean. Thought I would check and see if anyone knew what these symptoms are.

3,695

probly just one of the devils in the system, may just have to change all the electrical

Your Answer:

Thunderbird

Looking for a Used Thunderbird in your area?

CarGurus has 35 nationwide Thunderbird listings starting at $15,888.

Postal Code:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Larry Sturgis
    Reputation
    3,020
  • #2
    Gene Arnett
    Reputation
    2,080
  • #3
    MrBlueOval
    Reputation
    1,580
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Ford Mustang
65 Great Deals out of 1,259 listings starting at $4,995
Used Chevrolet Corvette
29 Great Deals out of 1,060 listings starting at $15,871
Used Lexus SC
3 Great Deals out of 17 listings starting at $13,495
Used Ford F-150
321 Great Deals out of 14,968 listings starting at $1,712
Used BMW 3 Series
71 Great Deals out of 1,176 listings starting at $1,995
Used Chevrolet Camaro
16 Great Deals out of 307 listings starting at $10,500
Used Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
12 Great Deals out of 126 listings starting at $13,995
Used Pontiac Firebird
15 listings
Used Ford Explorer
86 Great Deals out of 2,065 listings starting at $2,999
Used Ford Taurus
8 Great Deals out of 81 listings starting at $3,995
Used Chevrolet SSR
7 listings starting at $28,861

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.