Does this sound like the alternator?

Zaphan58 · 26 Jul 2022 at 20:23

I have a focus 2007. For a while now it's been making a whiny noise when revving the engine.

Today the noise stopped, swiftly followed by the battery light flashing then the power steering and abs light. About 5 minutes later the power steering went out.

The car still starts but if I turn the steering wheel the abs light flashes.

I'm tempted to think the whiny noise was a bearing in the alternator which has now gone and taken the alternator with it?

BUDFORCE · 26 Jul 2022 at 20:30

I think you should get it to a garage.

radderfire · 26 Jul 2022 at 20:35

I'm not a mechanic and this is just a suggestion for you to research, but maybe power steering pump failure.

ron3003 · 26 Jul 2022 at 22:04

Auxiliary belt snapped?

Zaphan58 · 26 Jul 2022 at 22:13

ron3003 said:
Auxiliary belt snapped?

I did check that and it's still in tact and going around.

Rroff · 26 Jul 2022 at 22:22

Do you have a multimeter? measuring voltage present at the battery when the engine is running would quickly give some idea if there is a problem with the alternator.

Calm · 26 Jul 2022 at 22:42

Alternator bushes gone perhaps!

Bare in mind if the battery lights on your probably not going to get far in it.

If you have a multi meter check the voltage with the car running, normal's around 14v, 12v or under and it's likely buggered. (plenty of guides to be found)

Skilid · 28 Jul 2022 at 11:23

Worth getting your battery tested too, for peace of mind. Places usually test them for free. It won't be making the noise, but could be contributing to the other things you've seen.

Gaygle · 28 Jul 2022 at 15:00

If the aux belt and all the other pulleys are still intact and power steering etc is still working - it's indeed probably the alternator that's gone