Starter or Solenoid?

[Jafeb]

My 98 Mark won't crank over if the Auto Lamp is activated. Also occasionally my Mark won't crank however after the third try it does. It also happens when I leave something plugged into my cigarette lighter? Is this the battery or the starter or the solenoid?

 

[ford nut]

Sounds like the battery is ready to die.
Does it start with a jump when it is giving you trouble?

These cars are picky when it comes to battery and alternator.

When my solenoid went to hell it just wouldn't crank over, then it would, after the solenoid cooled down.

On my 93 I had to replace all three
That car would love to make me walk.