chesong

I have a 2004 Ford Taurus. I couldn't start it this Monday.I called roadside assistance for jump start this noon and drove for about one hour.Then I went to a shopping center and turned my car off.After shopping,I couldn't start my car again.I called for another jump start then drove to autozone to check the battery since most of the mechanics shop were closed.But they couln't tell it is the battery or the alternator which cause the problem.

Does someone know what is the problem?

Thanks

jwko

It's either the battery, alternator, cables, bad connection or a major power drain somewhere.

Did Autozone even do a load test on the battery & check charging output voltage? Sounds to me the person that did the checking didn't know jack about what they were doing.

If you have a volt meter check the voltage while engine is running. If you have somewhere between 13 - 15 volts then that would rule out the alternator.

chesong

Thanks,jwko

I also think there is something wrong with the guy who helped me to check the battery.

The first time he measured the battery voltage when the engine is on, it is around 13.5V. Then he touched somepart to stop the engine and then the battery voltage is around 10V. I started the car again and the voltage is around 10V.

The guy suggested me to see one of his friend to check the alternator.

I am worried this guy was cheating so I didn't go to see his friend.