Hi guys,

A few weeks ago, I had the alternator light go on and then go away. Today, I was driving the X-Type and went to park, shifted into park and the car turned off. I turned the key to start it up again, nothing. Battery wouldn't even turn on. No ticking from the starter, either.

I tried jumping the battery with my friend's honda civic, but that didn't work. It let me turn on the battery and the car was ticking when I tried to start it, but never actually started. I then successfully jumped it with a Jag XJ8L. I let the car run for probably near half an hour and then I drove it home, trying to use as little electricity as possible. I got home and turned off the car. I turned it back on and it started right back up, without the battery light showing up.

I noticed a lot of white corrosion around the negative battery terminal so I cleaned it with some baking soda and water and it all went away. The car is starting back up.

I'm afraid of driving it on the daily commute because I don't want it to suddenly stop completely in the middle of a 45 zone or something.

Do you guys think it's the alternator or the more commonly problematic battery cables? And do you guys think I should have it checked out by a shop or just drive it while it's working and hope for the best?

Thanks in advance!

 

You actually found the problem, there is just another step you need to take to effect a reliable, long lasting repair: Remove and Clean the Cables, and Battery Posts!

Simple job!

Nice instructional video here!