So, I've been having a crazy electrical problem with my '05 Mustang GT for a few months now and could really use some info on it before I end up at the dealer's mercy. My husband and I have been able to fix most problems with our vehicles before and I would love this to be one of those instances!

Quite often when I start my car in the morning, the ABS, traction control, and I believe one other warning light turn on (will check the specifics next time it does this) and it has no accessory power. No radio, no AC, no power locks/windows, nothing! You also have to use the shift release lever to even move it. After the battery is unplugged for around 30-45 minutes the problem resolves itself and the car acts completely normal. I've also noticed that it will do this more frequently the colder the weather is. I do live in the Southwest so 'colder' means 60's or below at night. As winter is approaching I am finally completely fed up with this problem and about to take it to the dealer and just pray I can afford their fix. This is my last resort and I would appreciate absolutely any information or suggestions anyone might have for me.
THANK YOU ALL!
♥Fatimah

 

Two issues come to mind right off the bat:

1. These S197's are very finicky about operating voltage and the charging systems in them are iffy at best. The OE batteries are garbage and often cause the already-marginal alternator to work overtime. Have them both load-tested.
2. This one can be major: Have you ever noticed dampness on the front passenger carpet by the kickpanel? There's a TSB associated with a water leak that is unusually common on the '05s and '06s that, if left unchecked, will eventually cause corrosion of the SJB (Smart Junction Box) located inside the kickpanel. Symptoms are electrical gremlins.

Hopefully, your description seems to point, IMO, towards #1 since you say it's worse in cooler weather. Batteries have less capacity as the temperature drops (although 50-60 isn't exactly when most batteries tend to lose capacity).

 

I finally got into my old account! I'm roushluver and thank you so much for the quick response Nuke. I've had no dampness issues, and looked in my kickpanel and things seem to be in good condition there, I really hope that doesn't end up being the issue. I'll get the battery and alternator load tested tomorrow though.

 

could be a issue with the ignition switch , do you have a heavy key ring by chance ?