Was driving my 03 Cobra home yesterday when the radio died suddenly, then the a/c then the car.

I think it is the alternator or the voltage regulator because I could jump it off and get about 2 miles down the road when it did it again. What makes me think it may be the voltage regulator is that I had no warning light come on and when it is the alternator, usually the battery light will give you a little warning. But this time I had zero warning.

The car only has 35,000 miles on it so I am still under warranty, it just may be at the dealer over the weekend. [:@]

Anyone else have similar problems with their mustang? Seems like Ford uses bad alternators to me. This is the 3rd alternator (if I am right) that I have replaced on a ford.

1. Girlfriends 93 Escort
2. Wife's 01 Explorer
3. 03 Cobra.

 

sweet you have a girlfriend and a wife!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

I have been driving Fords for the last 17 years and can't say that I have had any problems with alternators that are out of the ordinary. I just plain is a part that wears out. If you have one that lasts for 100,000 miles on any car, you have done well.

 

I have heard of the alt. going haywire on a few 03/04 cobras. The problem usually gets worse with a lower pulley install too. The factory alt., according to Ford, is already being overspun by the stock lower pulley, because of the drive ratio. My question is why didn't they fix it to start with DUH HUH. The problems that you named sounds like the alt. on these cars! Let Ford fix er right up!!

 

I work at a parts store and let me say, if you do need a new alt, go with the Ford Motorcraft. Don't buy the remanufactured pieces or you'll be a pro at changing them out in less than a year. Do you have alot of stereo equipment like amps and subs? If so, get a capasitor and an Optima battery. Also, check your grounds to make sure they are not loose.

 

No bump in the trunk. Everything is factory. I got a new radar detector, but that cant draw near enough to kill the alternator.

The dealer called me Friday and said they think it is the alternator too, but...I guess an alternator is not something they keep in stock cause they had to order one[&:]
so I should get him back today.

The thing we are going to fight over is the new battery that I am going to need. Batteries are not covered under warranty, however I feel like if the part that IS under warranty caused its demise, it should be replaced under warranty.

 

time fo a new alternator.