pennstateengineer

So this morning I tried to start my car, but the engine wont turn. When I turn the key all the electrical components (radio, lights etc) shut off, no distinct sounds from the engine, and the airbag light blinks (don't know if that is significant). The car started perfectly fine yesterday, not sure what is wrong.

Any ideas?

Simon1

And how do you know your battery is ok?

pennstateengineer

because its was replaced 3 years ago, and the dashboard indicates a good charge. all electronics work, dont get the ticking sound of a weak battery

SpartaPerformance

That doesn't mean anything. Unless the battery is load tested you can't tell anything not to mention most forum goes buy the cheapest parts possible you have to consider if you bought a bogus battery it may be dead, hell I've seen OEM batteries die after 3 years too.

danzcool

What happens when you use jumper cables? If the car starts using jumper cables then it's battery time.

steel pony

...not to mention, the 05-09's are notorious for the alternators crapping out.

I agree with the others, don't rely on what the instrument panel is telling you. All that means is that it's pulling enough charge to light the necessary gauges. Test the battery and alternator.
You'd also be well advised to get in the habit of turning everything off every time you get out of the car. The CD player especially in those model years will still draw a charge if you turn off the car with it on.
Try unhooking the battery cables for a few minutes and try again, jump it if necessary then test everything for correct voltage

pennstateengineer

Havent tried jumping it yet, but I got the alternator replaced by the dealership a couple years back. They were recalled apparently.
I replaced the OEM radio already and everything was off when I got in the car, I'm really good about that.

steel pony

Good deal! Check the alternator anyways...they may have been recalled, but all of the replacements are refurbs from my understanding. They fail at some point on the 05-09's, just not enough of them under warranty or in general. Better off with an aftermarket one at some point.

Troponin

It's been years since I was working for GM, but back then, they used AC Delco, which was a great company and brand. What does Ford use for OEM electrical like that?

I always thought aftermarket was so hit or miss with this area of parts though too. Refurb isn't terrible. Just think of it like "New with all the bugs worked out" haha!

drewsky

Three years is a long time for a battery! Check it out to make sure, had enough to turn the lights in and maybe but maybe not crank it over.. What noise does it make when you turn the key?