55 plate Ford Mondeo 2.2 TdCi Duratrac Estate. Driving home last night I noticed that the control panel lights appeared to be dimmer than usual. Then the battery light came on followed by the ABS light. My headlights had visibly dimmed by now then my dials all went dead. I managed to get it home before my headlights failed completely. But it wouldn't "turn over" when I tried to restart it after parking up.
I am assuming it is either the battery has died or the alternator has packed up. Any thoughts?

Black Dog, April 2011

most likely the alternator,strange tho on a 55 plate unless it has done zillions of miles. Get the car started then put a voltmeter on the battery terminals - with car running it should be over 14 volts...any less and alternator is dud - get a refurbished one. in case you were wondering the ABS detects the low voltage and light comes on, so nothing to worry about its all either battery or alternator niether of which will bankrupt you to replace.

david, April 2011

your right,its either the alternator or the battery,charge your battery fully,then see if it will start your car,check to see if the ignition light is on when the car runs,if it is,the the alternator,or wiring is faulty,if its not,then the battery is faulty,or you may have left a boot light on that is draining the battery,also,check to see if your battery can be topped up with water,

MM, April 2011