Mattl2186

Hi all. I am new to the forum.

2002 V6 Automatic. A week ago I had to replace the battery because I could not get the engine to start at all. Swapped new battery in and she started up fine, I drove her for a week without any problems. Well, now, I crank and she dies immediately. The only way I can keep her running is if I press down the gas pedal, but, as soon as I let off she will turn off. I'm kind of lost and any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Jeff Ball

So its not idling on its own? is it revving like normal when you press the pedal or is it hesitant? If it just isnt idling, id suggest checking your air intake for trash or debris and, your Idle Air Control for any trash it could be clogged up.

Chromeshadow

Might be the alternator, if you have a voltmeter, measure the voltage on the battery. It should be about 12.6V when the engine is off, and around 13.5V when the engine is running. If the voltage is less than 13.5 when the engine is running, the alternator is probably bad, most car parts store will check it for free. Alternators put out more power as you rev up your engine, so if it's weak, it may run when you are reving the engine, but not at an idle.

One thing some people miss, when you remove a battery cable, always clean the inside of the clamp and the battery terminal. You can get a $5.00 battery terminal brush that does both quickly. If the terminals are dirty, your battery will not charge properly.