93 Ford Taurus Battery/ electrical issue?

[bjuno87]

Back during the polar vortex I started the car no problem and let it heat up before driving to work, during the drive I noticed the battery light turn on and my console and headlights started to dim, also my RPM Gauge dropped to 0 and started jumping. The car died on the highway. I pulled over and tried to start it, it wouldn't turn over. I took the key out and called my wife to come and give me a ride to work. Without touching anything I decided to try and start it, it started and I drove all the way to work. Once at work I shut the vehicle off, after work I attempted to start the vehicle and it wouldn't turn without a jump, I tested the battery and it was giving off 0 volts. I replaced the battery and the car drove fine for one day. Now its dead at work again.
Any advice?

[shorod]

Welcome to the forum!

The jumping tachometer used to be pretty indicative of a failing ignition control module (ICM). I think your 1993 would still use an ICM. Do you know which engine your car has (3.0L OHV, 3.0L DOHC, 3.0L DOHC SHO, or 3.2L DOHC SHO)?

Given the battery issues you experienced though, the issue could also be due to the system voltage dropping. It would be unusual for a battery to have absolutely zero volts unless there is a pretty substantial internal open circuit. Even then, it would be pretty unlikely to get a second battery with the same issue. However, if you have a failing alternator or alternator wiring that is loading the system and draining the battery, that might help explain the batteries without enough voltage to start the car. Keep in mind that the "battery" light on the instrument cluster does not necessarily indicate an issue with the battery, but rather an issue with the charging system. Your next step should probably be to have the alternator tested, which most auto parts stores will do at no charge. You can either take the car there an have it tested on the car, or take the alternator in and have it tested on the bench.

It's possible you have more than one issue with the car currently, but identifying the charging system issue would be the logical place to start. It certainly wouldn't hurt to carefully inspect the charging system wires and connections for any signs of looseness or corrosion. Finding none, have the alternator tested.

-Rod