Teezy

Car has been running fine, but i have noticed the guages will all spike then drop to zero shortly after starting the car.

I washed my car, then tried to start it and theres absolutely no power, and when i popped the hood i noticed a strange clicking noise that DOES NOT STOP, its coming from the front left of the motor (opposite the battery), when it comes to electrical i know nothing, anybody know what this could be?

Any help would be greatly apreciated, i have work first thing in the morning.

Thanks.

2001NBMZ28

Low battery voltage on the '99 causes the gauge sweep on start-up. Check the cable connections/have it load tested.

the impaler

Low voltage for sure, the clicking is most likely a relay, they act funny when they have very low voltage.
I would have the battery tested

Teezy

Thanks for the advice.

It ended up beeing the negative battery terminal, its on there tight, but still hardly making a connection, i've seen theses problems before with the GM front post battery system, the plates inside that make the connection slightly push back throughout the life of the battery causing a weak connection. Shoulda know, but thanks guys.

CRBWS6

iTrader: (1)

Just wanted to share that I recently had this exact same symptom and same diagnosis. Mine was due to the Optima being 9 years old. Battery was fine and still holds over 12.6V, but the side terminals must have worn out due to age. I kept the battery and added terminal adapters and spacers so I could use the bonus top terminals that came on the battery.

slothman

9 years LOL. that's dinosaur age right there.

**** in AZ we get 2-3 years on a battery. 4 if ur lucky.

CRBWS6

iTrader: (1)

I’m actually in PHX! And I have another Optima thats 10 years old in my DD. My secret sauce is to lift the hood when parked in the garage which keeps the heat off it and to use a battery tender when the car is not used for more than a day or two.