I have a '96 RS automatic convertible. While driving, the tach and speedometer started twitching and jumping and the battery indicator would drop. The engine died, but I was able to restart it and make it about 3 miles but the car died in my neighborhood and would not restart.

When I turn the ignition key to "On", no instrument panel lights come on and no gauges respond. When I turn the key to crank the engine, there is no response and no sound. I replaced the battery as the existing one was old, but still held a charge. The battery cable connections are secure. I had a starting module and three coil packs from a wrecked '96 and installed it, but it had no effect.

Is this more likely an ignition switch issue and not a generator issue since it died while running, no instrument panel lights come on when the switch is in the on position, and won't crank at all with a new battery? Not sure where to look next and not very knowledgeable about these things. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

 

check the ignition fuse. heck check all of em.