'98 Ford Contour loses electricity when I accelerate. What's up?

Question

As said, 1998 Ford Contour. It doesn't happen EVERY time, and it seems that if I accelerate gently, the problem doesn't occur, or at least doesn't occur as often. But once in a while, when i try to accelerate, my radio/CD player turns off, the windshield wipers go on, both tachometer and speedometer go null, and once it even died altogether. Aside from this, the car runs like a champ.

I've checked the terminals on the battery, they are connected firmly and don't appear to have any buildup. The battery was purchased within the last 7 months, so i know it's perfectly healthy. Car never has any trouble starting, so I know it's being charged properly. The problem is solely linked to acceleration, and only from 0-20mph. Above that speed, it seems to run just fine. So while freeway driving is still perfectly fine, driving around town is a hassle. Apart from this the car drives fine so I've still been using it regularly. I can't afford to fix anything severe.

Answer 1

If the alt checks out, have a look at the ecm - engine control module.   Its not too expensive and sometimes is is simply bad contacts.

Answer 2

sounds like just a wiring problem if it is it wont cost much

Answer 3

Have you checked the alternator output? SHould be around 14 volts are slighlty higher. A new battery just compensates for the loss of volt on the alternator then while you're driving it will re-charge slightly. I would make sure to have the alternator tested so you don't end up replacing that and the battery after you break down.

Answer 4

i have exact problem, almost impossible to diagnose, if you can find a tech to diagnose problem i'd love to hear about it, thanks, [e-mail]