No electrics

[tallman]

When I tried to start our 94 Mark 8 to leave work this afternoon, I heard only a single soft click. I then noticed that none of the electrics (lights, horn, gauges, etc.) were working. It was as though the battery had been disconnected but the battery cable clamps were tight and the connections were clean. While waiting on a ride home, I got back in the car and noticed the dome light was on. Put the key in the ignition, turned it, and the car started right up with all electrics working. I drove the car home and it ran fine. Maybe there is a simple explanation for the electrics being dead then all of a sudden they start working. If so, I would appreciate any helpful comments.

 

[chris2523]

loose/dirty connections at the battery is most probable. if you got out and messed with them, that fixed it.

 

[driller]

My '96 did something similar once. I was sure the battery was dead and needed a jump. As soon as I hooked up the charger, the car sprung to life and the alarm started blaring. Once I cancelled the alarm, it started with no issue.

 

[tallman]

Will check the battery connections as suggested. Thank you.

 

[tallman]

The clamp on the negative battery cable had split and was making intermittent contact. New cable clamp solved the problem. Thank you.

 

[tixer]

Nice catch!

 

[billcu]

Thanks for the update, glad to hear it was an easy fix.

I've got one that's half broke I need to replace.