Battery Light!

Ref · Unread post by **Ref** » 10 Aug 2011, 19:33

my xantia has been parked for about 7 days, it started normal but when i turned the blinker strange noise came from behind the wheel and the battery light came on same with the wipers, it happened for a couple of times then everything went back to normal again, should i start shopping for alternator?

Xantidote · Unread post by **Xantidote** » 11 Aug 2011, 10:07

By "wheel", I'm assuming you mean the steering wheel. Does the problem only happen (maybe randomly) when you use the indicator switch?

I once had a funny rapid ticking noise from behind the steering wheel. Traced this to the indicator switch, which I found was due to the switch's contacts becoming worn. Despite this fault, the indicators themselves flashed correctly. After an initial repair, the problem started again, and just by luck I found the rear wiper was trying jerkily to move on the screen. Never understood why this should happen, but new indicator switch sorted everything

Ref · Unread post by **Ref** » 11 Aug 2011, 10:24

yeah a buzz like sound from the steering wheel and the battery dash light flashes then goes off, happened once and everything is normal again, i also get the clicking sound from time to time, guess it's bad switch then!!

Xantidote · Unread post by **Xantidote** » 11 Aug 2011, 10:47

Well, it certainly seems to be 1 possibility, though I wouldn't like to feel it's the only diagnosis! Perhaps other Forum members will be along with different explanations! Good luck.

My Xantia's a S1, and the steering wheel needs to be removed to access the indicator switch, whereas on the S2 (unsure which yours is), I understand the wheel doesn't have to be removed.

handyman · Unread post by **handyman** » 11 Aug 2011, 14:10

Chances are the problem is either a worn ignition switch or the circular track that lives under the steering boss. Is your car a Mk1?

If the battery indication light is coming on, there is either a very high resistance in that area or a major short.

Its also worth checking the connectors around the sterring column, as they are known to come loose. Something to do with the under dash gremlins that live there.

Handyman

Ref · Unread post by **Ref** » 11 Aug 2011, 15:56

it's MK1, i will check the connectors for starters..

Unread post by **Peter.N.** » 11 Aug 2011, 16:35

I would do a few miles in it before you start replacing things. I have found that XMs develop strange faults when they haven't been used for a while and then heal up. I think its due to damp.

Peter

Ref · Unread post by **Ref** » 13 Aug 2011, 21:29

as it didn't happen again so i'll leave it unless if starts to act crazy, thanks for the advice guys!