Gauges "freak out" and car won't start

**Sesleeper** · 08-17-2011

this is the 2nd time i have experienced this problem. when i started my 99 GP se 3.1L it tried to start but then the gauges were goin crazy. like my speedometer would go all the way and go past 110 and bounce back and forth ( same with all the other gauges ). then it wouldnt start at all ( no starter sound ) but i have never had starter problems before. but when i turn the key to start it nothing happens its like my battery is dead. but when i turn the key to the on postion the gauges fail back and forth. and the radio turns on and i can roll my windows down. so i unhooked my battery and i let the car reset everything. and thn it started up just fine. so any ideas y this would happen??

**KeithGTP03** · 08-17-2011

Sounds like the battery doesnt have the voltage or amps to run everything...have it tested.
*Edit* Missed the part where you unhooked and it was fine....your battery terminals may have been loose.

**Sesleeper** · 08-17-2011

i was just driveing it went into the store for like 5 min walked out and it happend

**KeithGTP03** · 08-17-2011

Mine did that a few times when I first bought the car and when I wiggled the positive cable, I noticed it was loose. Tightened it up and that was that. You may wanna have the battery tested if its old, or just replace it if its over 4 yrs old...batteries can do some weird things when they're on their way out.

**Sesleeper** · 08-17-2011

ok man thanks ill try getting a new batter because i bought it used from a family friend and idk when he last got a new one. thanks for the help

**BillBoost37** · 08-18-2011

Your gauges sweep each time you try to start the car. You sure they are freaking out or ....maybe you never noticed the gauge cluster before?

**Spaceghost** · 08-18-2011

I vote battery as well. I just went through this about 2 weeks ago. I trickle charged it overnight and tightened down my battery cables. Good to go ever since.