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My car died last night while driving down the freeway. All ...

Sent to Car Experts October 09, 2005 1:20 p.m.

My car died last night while driving down the freeway. All of a sudden I was not able to accelerate and it almost felt like I was out of gear, but I doublechecked to make sure I was in gear and that's when I noticed the battery light flashed on. So I pulled over to the side of the freeway. I noticed I was still getting power as my dashlights were still on, as well as my radio and interior lights were still functioning. I tried to turn the ignition on, but it would not turn over. What could be the problem?

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Status: Closed Value: $5

Answer
October 09, 2005 1:31 p.m. (11 minutes and 20 seconds later)

ACCEPTED

It could be your alternator, or it could be a belt.
The battery is only needed to start the car, after that, the alternator generates the electricity needed for the spark and all other electrical needs, it also re-charges the battery while driving.
If your alternantor "died" you would only be riding on the "juice" remaining in the battery. This doesn't last very long!! If you lost the belt that turns the alternator,or it is slipping, the sypmtoms would be the same!
Check to make sure that the belt is still there and also check the tension on the belt... it should not deflect more than 1/4". If you can get the car running, take it to an auto parts store... they can check the alternantor for you and tell you if it is functioning properly or needs replacement
The radio and "accessory" lights draw very little power, so they may still function. Turn on your headlights and try to start the car.. the headlights will probably dim. Best wishes>>Martye
I hope this answered your questions. If it did, kindly click the "accept" button to reward my efforts. If it did not, let me know how I can assist you further.
Sincerely,.....Martye

martye -- home mechanic -- 100% Positive Feedback on 2 Car Accepts
work on my own cars

Reply
Sent October 09, 2005 1:45 p.m. (13 minutes and 2 seconds later)

Thank you Martye for your answer. another quick question...i noticed after my last 80K mile service, at times my car would make a loud squealing noise when i turn my engine on and turn the AC on...after a minute or so, it would go away...could my above problem be related to this? My vehicle is a 2001 Audi A4, all wheel.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)

Answer
October 09, 2005 2:33 p.m. (48 minutes and 49 seconds later)

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martye -- home mechanic -- 100% Positive Feedback on 2 Car Accepts
work on my own cars

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