Battery & Power Steering Issue

GLOVERJR87

MEMBER
2005 DODGE DAKOTA
AUTOMATIC

I have a 2005 Dodge Dakota.
The other day I was backing out of a parking spot and went to straighten up and the steering went out and the battery light came on. I dropped off my friend and while she was getting out the temperature gauge went all the way to H and that light came on. I went to the next stop sign and while I was waiting the temp went down. As I was making my way home the steering got a bit better but not by much. As I was turning into my parking spot I could hear a whine from the hood.
I was told it could be a couple of problems; a busted belt or low power steering fluids. I checked the belts, they're fine. Checked ALL my fluids, and those are fine too. I had let the truck sit for a couple of days and decided to see how it would run. It did the same thing; battery light on, power steering out. What could be the problem?

1 Reply

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,761 POSTS

Check if the belt is moving when the engine is running. If it isn't or is turning slowly, the spring-loaded tensioner could be weak or rusted in a partially relaxed position. In rare cases the bottom pulley on the engine could be loose and not turning properly. Typically there will be some unusual noise associated with that. If you were driving through deep snow, there is likely water on the belt. That won't hurt anything unless it freezes and causes the belt to slip. That will take care of itself. All of the things you mentioned have something in common with the belt. Understand that you have a relatively minor problem right now, but continuing to drive it when it is overheating is a sure way to destroy the engine. It's better to let it cool down for 15 - 20 minutes, then drive it quickly for a mile or two or until it gets hot again.

Caradiodoc