Just bought a 2003 F150 and all the guage needles max out on engine start up then after about 3 seconds go back down to zero or where they should be. Dealer said it does that when the battery is low. But it's brand new. Anyone have this happen?

TIA
Erik

 

from your two post's i just read i would take it back to the dealer! sounds really weird !! if it's from a dead battery tell them to replace it !!!!!!!!!! your truck is brand new!!!!!!

 

I agree take it back. When you see the gages do that it means the computer was reset . This may cause poor fuel mileage because the computer has to "learn" and recalculate efficiencies all over again.

 

The guages do that when there is a problem with the battery. Nice to know. My brand new battery had a bad cell and was only putting out 10.5 volts insted of 12. Ford replace it with a new one.

Thanks for your replys
Erik

 

This is exactly the kind of thing that this board is great for. Thanks, you have saved someone else a problem in the future.

Hunt4Fun

 

My voltage is 12.5 volts with the engine off. Could the battery still be the cause for the "maxed out gauges" syndrome?

 

Well, I answered my own question. Replaced my battery with a Motorcraft 850 CCA, OEM was a 650 but the 850 is the same size physically. No more gauge problems..... for now.