Posted: 4/18/2010 7:03:36 PM EDT
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I have a 2002 Ford Escape 4x4 with the V6 engine. Wife's ride. Anyway, when you start it up, everything works well. However, after driving for about 45 mins-1 hr, the gas gauge and the tachometer start to fluctuate. As time goes on, it gets worse and finally, the tachometer will stop working all together. The gas gauge will read lower than the actual content of the tank. Weird thing is, if I turn the engine off and then restart, the tachometer will work properly for awhile and then start to do the same thing again.
Can't seem to find much info on the net. Tried removing the instrument cluster and cleaning all the contacts but no luck. Any thoughts?? |
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I'd start with checking the starting and charging systems. CDW cars tend to do strange things when the alternator starts to flake out. Yup, been there. If they don't get the voltage needed to maintain the system is like your car is having a seizure. It is possible you could have a loose connection somewhere but it is less likely. |
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Quoted:
alternator, the radio will be next in line after that. Other things will start to shutdown until the car will not run anymore. Have it checked! Take it to autozone and they will wheel out their little cart to "check" it. Not a complete check up but it's free and easy if you are not mechanically inclined or have tools. One of the most important household and auto tools a man can have is a quality multi-meter...and to know how to use it! |
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Quoted:
Quoted:
alternator, the radio will be next in line after that. Other things will start to shutdown until the car will not run anymore. Have it checked! Take it to autozone and they will wheel out their little cart to "check" it. Not a complete check up but it's free and easy if you are not mechanically inclined or have tools. One of the most important household and auto tools a man can have is a quality multi-meter...and to know how to use it! Thanks for the suggestions. I am mechanically inclined and have a nearly fully equipped shop building. I will check out the alternator as soon as I get home. It's been doing this for the past year that we have owned the vehicle. I have not checked it but the lights were nice and bright and the vehicle started well. But, I still will check out the alternator. And I agree with the need for a good multimeter! |