Diagnosis needed

[Scotte85]

Hi guys, just had a problem with my car and im hoping someone can help me narrow down whats wrong.

Basically i was just out driving, it was raining so i had my window wipers on. I noticed them moving slower than usual and felt something wasnt right. So i started to pull over and then the steering locked. Luckily i was pretty much at a stop by then and just parked up. Now when i try to start the engine it wont start and all the lights flash, even ones ive never seen before.. a green coil type light?

also im not sure if this is relevent but about a couple of months ago my engine management light came on for a couple of weeks, i dismissed this as it went off again. maybe that could have something to do with it?

any help appreciated, cheers!

[maxwedge]

Post year make and model, no?

[vgames33]

Slower wipers may indicate a dying battery. Check the charging system.

[shorod]

You should never ignore a check engine light. If it comes on during normal driving, it's coming on for a reason. And on newer cars even if it goes back out there will be a stored diagnostic code so there's not a need to get the system scanned when the light is on. I'm not sure about where you're located, but around here most of the chain auto parts stores will even scan for generic powertrain codes for free.

Based on the symptoms provided, I'd suggest your stalling to be associated with a charging system issue as well. I wouldn't start with the battery though since you were driving at the time. It sounds like your alternator is not providing enough current to the system. Did you also have your headlights on at the time? The lights flashing when trying to start could just be due to a really weak battery from not getting charged and the current draw when trying to engage the starter causing the system voltage to drop so low the lights go dark until the starter relay releases, which then lets the lights appear again until the voltage level gets high enough for the starter relay to close again, etc. This repeating cycle could explain the lights "flashing".

Certainly vehicle specifics when posting to an automotive forum will help people respond with better fidelity. It's not too late to provide that detail.

-Rod