1998 Saturn SL2 Battery Light Blinking

ANNE1970

MEMBER
1998 SATURN

I have a 1998 Saturn SL2 130,000 miles with a 4 cyl engine and out of no where the battery light started blinking. Then it was just onalways after about 5 min. My powersteering then went out, however the car still drove. It seemed to recharge when I drove faster. By the time I got to the Autozone my lights no longer worked and the car did not want to drive any more. I bought a new battery and had it installed. The battery light continues to blink, the dashboard lights are dull and now when I excelerate sometimes there is a noise that sounds like metal fan blades coming into contact with paper. I cannot find my owner's manual so I cannot look up what the blinking battery light means. Please help! Thank you.

Friday, April 20th, 2007 AT 10:26 PM

2 Replies

BOOTDOG

MECHANIC
665 POSTS

Replace the alternator. The alternator is not keeping a charge on the battery and thats why the light comes on and the vehicle is dying.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

+1

Saturday, April 21st, 2007 AT 3:15 AM

PEPPERMRJ

MECHANIC
1,158 POSTS

Hey Anne,
I think Boot is right if the car keeps dying. The alternator needs replaced or rebuilt. The one on my 96 went at about 105,000 miles.

You might have another problem also tho. The blinking alt light also can indicate a low coolant level. Notice any leaks or puddles? Check the coolant level cold in the tank.

If it is low you will need to refill and look for leaks. When coolant dries it leaves white stains. Could be hoses, waterpump, rad, coolant tank pressure cap, or the heater core.

Good hunting and let us know. :)
peppermrj

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

No

+2

Sunday, April 22nd, 2007 AT 6:54 PM