Check the voltage at the battery. If you don't have a meter you can get one for around $15.00. You should have at least 13.6 volts DC but not more than 14.5 Volts DC. If you have proper DC voltage then test with your meter on the AC scale. You should not have any volts in AC. If you do it indicates a bad diode in the alternator. Many auto parts stores offer free charging system checks.
alternator is not charging battery, or loose - corroded connection on battery cables
I had the same problem with my 2002 Escape XLT. Another website suggested (and it worked for me) to check the coolant overflow reservoir. Apparently the signal for "low coolant" shows up as "check battery".
Most cases the battery light comes on because the alternator isn't charging. The alternator may need replaced as well as the battery. It may be something more simple as a poor connection.
Battery light usually means alternator not charging. Most common solutions would be be a bad alternator, bad connection, or loose alternator belt.
You will have to disconnect the battery for 10 seconds or more to reset the computer, then reconnect the battery and check if the light is off and remains off , if the light comes back on I would take to mechanic and have it scanned for trouble codes.
Bad Alternator or the Battery possibly is losing voltage. I replaced the alternator and serpentine belt before thinking it was the battery. The battery was only 16 months old. But it turned out to be the bad source.
Disconnect the battery for about an hour, then hook it back up. If it comes back on, something is wrong.
When the battery light is on. That means your charging system isn't working. You should have your system check. It will drain your battery.
There is no reset for the battery light. If the light is on there's a problem with the electrical system and once the problem is repaired the light will automatically go out.
The ford escape is a very temperamental car to say the least. The light could be coming on for several reasons. The escape has many sensors that can short circuit and cause the light to go on. I recommend taking your car to autozone. They will test your car out for free and narrow the problem down. Then you can go from there. Fix it yourself or take it to a mechanic.
what to do when the malfuction light comes on?
The 2002 Hyundai Sonata has a gas light that comes on when the gas is low. After the gas light comes on the car can travel 25 to 30 miles.