Ford Focus 2001 1.6 zetec - Battery Light, crazy dials, high voltage

Honest John Back Room » Technical matters
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Thu 25 Mar 2010 22:49
Ford Focus 2001 1.6 zetec - Battery Light, crazy dials, high voltage - Halligan

Recently after starting my my 2001 1.6 Focus, the battery warning light came on briefly, then all the dash illumination went out, then it all went back to normal, but the dash illumination was dimming and the headlights were slightly flickering.

The next day whilst driving, the battery light went on and off a few times, then the speedo and rev counter shot up past the max, then the front, rear and side indicators all came on (constantly on, not flashing), meaning i couldn't signal. Then the speedo went to about 150mph and stayed there. Also the fuel/temp gauge will drop to 0, the radio will cut out, and the door open lights on beep will sound.

I've removed the dash cluster unit and cleaned it, and given it a light coating of ACF-50 spray, but the problems remain. I've got a DTC 9317 code, (high battery voltage). The dash LCD is showing between 14v and 18v. I've read on various forums various solutions, such as changing the speed sensor, alternator and battery.

Does anyone have any idea which is the best thing to replace first, or have any better ideas??

Thanks for your help

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Fri 26 Mar 2010 14:27
Ford Focus 2001 1.6 zetec - Battery Light, crazy dials, high voltage - TD1947

Hi, I if the problem is not there when the engine is NOT started (i.e. turn the key to turn the dash electornics on, but do NOT crank the engine over), it is most likeley yhe alternator (I would start with that anyway). There is a transistorised (electronic IC) regulator circuit in it, that attempts to keep the Alternator output volatge at around 13.2 (or 13.4 volts for newer systems with Cadmoim batteries), regardless of engine speed.

This is to protect both the electronic units (ECM stuff) and the lamps from blowing.

I am not sure if this regulator pack is available seperately on these, or if it is "hard wired in" to the unit, and not replaceable. Maybe other forum members can answer that bit.

TD.

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Sat 27 Mar 2010 15:29
Ford Focus 2001 1.6 zetec - Battery Light, crazy dials, high voltage - Halligan

Hi, Thanks for the reply. The problem doesn't seem to be there with just the ignition on, so I'll start with the alternator. Thanks for your help.

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