Q: Warning lights and then car died

asked by on February 12, 2016

While driving the ABS light came on, and then shortly after all my gauges went blank except my radio. I was able to pull up an off ramp, and then the car died. I tried starting the car, and all the gauges came back on, but the car didn't even attempt to turn over.

Warning Light is on Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote
Car starts and then dies Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hello. It sounds like you have a battery and/or alternator issue. In some cars, like the make/model that you have, the ABS light will come on when the battery voltage is low. You will need to get your battery and alternator checked to see which one is causing the problem. It could also be both. A certified technician, such as one from YourMechanic, can test your vehicle and make necessary repairs for your Warning Light and starting issue.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

I am worried my airbags won’t work in a crash
As long as any new electrical gremlins that pop up are not related to the same passenger airbag circuit, I would doubt that this repair would cause new electrical issues. Ford has had this specific issue come up in the...
Loss of power and stalling when braking.
Having your car stall on you when you are trying to brake can be a frustrating and dangerous experience. Your RPMS dropping low and your vehicle stalling can be caused by a few different problems. The issue may be due...
Driver's side door won't open
If the driver side door will not open then most of the time this is caused by a broken door latch that should be repalaced (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/door-latch-replacement). If neither handle works then the latch is broken inside of the door or...
Problem with torque converter or camshaft sensor
Having your Volkswagen's code is a great place to start. Reading Error code P0741 or Volkswagen manufacturer code 17125, means that the torque converter is not functioning as it should. The first thing to check is the level of the...
Grumbling sound while breaking at the stop light, brake pedal shakes
You are exactly right. It is your anti-lock braking system that is engaging when you hear that buzzing sound. A number of things could cause the anti-lock braking system to engage when it shouldn't. Some of these things would include:...
Difficulty starting 1992 Volvo 740 when the engine warms up
The fuel pressure on your 1992 Volvo 749 should be checked to make sure it is within proper specifications. If there is a clog or malfunction in the fuel system, the car may experience a poor running situation or may...
2008 Trailblazer motor mounts
It is possible that your transmission mount (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-mount-replacement) could be worn out as well. I would recommend having the transmission mount checked by using a large pry bar to lift up on the transmission at that location. If the transmission...
My dad decided to push and clean my electric throttle body now my car is accelerating into second gear without me touching the gas
Remove the intake hosing to the throttle body and start the engine with the parking brake on and the transmission in park. Have someone throttle the engine as a snap throttle (to the floor and back very quickly but not...
Does my 1991 toyota Camry actually have an intake air temperature sensor and if not why do I only get that code?
Check inside the air filter housing and if it is not there then it is built into the mass air sensor on this model.

Related articles

What Does the Adaptive Cruise Control Warning Light Mean?
The adaptive cruise control (ACC) indicator light helps keep your car at a safe speed while driving by sensing the distance of the car ahead of you.
What Does the Hybrid Drive System Malfunction Warning Light Mean?
The hybrid drive system malfunction light turns on when an issue is detected with the system. It could be due to problem with the battery or a fuse.
What Do the Press Clutch or Press Brake Pedal Warning Lights Mean?
The press clutch and press brake pedal lights remind you to press on the brake or clutch before starting the engine or while in park mode.