Expert: Josh Fields - 9/22/2006

Question
Night before the car was driving fine, I didn’t see any lights come on the dashboard, park the car and the next morning the car started for a second and then shutoff, try to started again no luck, I jump started the car and drove for 5 miles, radio and a/c unit kip turning on and off, the car it self was staling.
I changed the alternator and no luck try to start wont start, try to jump started, wont even jump start, the car has 110 000 miles and I never have a problem before, I am thinking maybe need to change the spark plugs and cables or should I take the car to the shop.
Thanks


Answer
John,
 You changed the alternator, but what about the Battery?  Batteries go bad too, and usually average 5-7 years if treated correctly (i.e. not allowing the battery to fully run empty).

 I would check the battery to make sure that it's holding charge.  I am not an expert with the E36 3-series, I am more familiar with the e30 (1984-1991) 3-series.  That being said, alternator/battery problems are the same with virtually any car.

 So You can remove the battery and take it Autozone or any other local parts store, and they will usually test it for free.

 Good luck,
 Josh