93 Metro weird things

[sizzlaw]

Two weird things on my 93 Metro conv.
First, below the instrument panel there is a little red light just to the left of the knob that adjusts the panel light intensity. The light flashes constantly, even wihen the ignition is off and the key is removed. The light is not mentioned in the owner's manual.
Questions: Was this light added or did it come with the car?
What is it?
Does it have anything to do with the second weird thing?
Second weird thing: After sitting idle for more than three days the engine will not turn over; just a click when I turn the key. The horn, lights. and radio are fine; a jump start works immediately and the car runs fine, until the next idle period.
Anyone know what's happening? Suggestions? Sizzlaw

[Infinitrium]

The second thing could be a sticking starter solenoid. I doubt that would have anything to do with the first thing however.

[Pedro'96]

Seems like you have an electrical leak... Next time the car sits for a few days, disconnect the battery negative terminal, and see if that solves the problem. If it does, next step is to locate the current drain, which can be fun...

-Pedro

[mcalvo]

Sizzlaw:
For the second thing I have no idea. But maybe it is someway related to the flashig red light. In my metro, I have my K-9 alarm advisory RED light right in the spot you tell you have your red light. If your car does not have alarm anymore (or never had) the red light could be a simulated alarm advisory just to tell the robbers it has an alarm. Pretty silly huh? But it works!!

I would suggest to follow those wires to know where exactly them go.

Now, ordinary alarms have an anti-jacking (I don't know if that word exists) function that force the owner to press a hidden button in order to prevent the car to stop working due to electrical cut off. I know this is not what is happening to you but maybe, and just maybe, if your car stills have an alarm (connected or not) and it is not working properly (or not working at all) it could be causing this weird acting. So, better check.

Kind of spagetti recommendation in here, isn't it?.

Hope you understand my poor english and this info helps you out.

MC.

[dan deutekom]

I don't know what the red light is for, but if it is flashing even when you have the keys out of the ignition it is drawing battery power at all times and causing problem #2