2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. Entire dashboard (gas, speedometer, warning lights, et cetera) and dome lights suddenly went out
Nothing works on the dashboard. Luckily, turn lights on outside of car still works, but I do not receive notification on the dashboard that they are on. I was using the car earlier in the day and it was acting as usual. I will not say great, but usual. The ignition takes a couple of seconds to start up. However, the starter will sometimes make a grinding noise which will cause me to immediately shut off the car and wait for a few seconds. The fuse box was recently replaced with a used box from ebay. Ignition switch does not seem loose. I did have some problems when I first bought the car with heavy battery drainage and the hatchback popping open on its own. The hatchback still pops open, but not as often.
Cars & Trucks - Chrysler
Answers & Comments
Lots of potential problems here, unfortunately!
First, the starter: If it's "grinding," that suggests the gear on the starter solenoid isn't engaging properly with the ring gear on the flywheel when you turn the key to the "start" position. On some starters, you can replace the solenoid, but it usually makes more sense to replace the entire starter with a new or rebuilt unit. (However, before doing this, have your battery tested to ensure it's producing enough power "under load." Auto parts stores will do this free.) It's also possible -- though less likely -- that the ring gear itself is damaged, which would be an expensive fix.
Regarding the hatchback popping open: The usual reason is that the latch mechanism needs to be adjusted so it grabs the hatch properly when it's closed. It's usually possible to loosen the latch bolts and raise/lower the latch or move it side to side so it's aligned properly.
If you have a manual remote latch release, that will probably solve the problem. If it's an electrical release, the problem could be a defective switch that sometimes completes the electrical connection when it shouldn't.
Regarding all the dashboard lights going out: First, why did you replace the fuse box in the first place? If it was damaged in some way, it could have harmed other electrical components and wiring before you replaced it. Second, are you sure you replaced it with a fuse box from the EXACT same year and model? If not, there might be small differences in the circuit layout that could cause problems.
Usually, there are separate circuits for dashboard lights (through the headlight switch) and warning lights. The fact that all of them don't work (sometimes) suggests a problem with a "feed" wire or connection that powers several different circuits.
Also, there is sometimes a "master" connector in the engine compartment that links many cables from the engine compartment and fuse box to the interior of the car. Try taking apart the connector, spraying with WD-40 or contact cleaner and plugging in/unplugging the connector several times to (hopefully) get rid of any corrosion.
Also, check for any loose/missing/rusty ground wires under the hood attached to the body sheet metal. A bad ground can cause problems even if the "hot" side of the circuit is OK.
If none of that works, visit an online forum specifically for your year and model vehicle and see if you can find a wiring diagram. From that, you should be identify the "feed" wire or connection most likely responsible for the problem, and see if you can trace it, double-checking all connections.
There's a lot on your plate. Good luck!