is my alternator broke?

[medicomiller]

oh dear. I was driving to leeds last night for a new year's eve party. was in the fast lane of the M1 when all of a sudden, my batt light came on the dash followed by the power steering light. All my lights cut out and my engine stopped. I couldn't even use my indicators or hazards. So luckily I managed to pull on to the hard shoulder whilst avoiding collision.

The most stupid thing is that I wasn't even covered by breakdown, so I had to call the AA and pay £117 for cover so that they would come out and sort my car (but that's all my fault anyway)

The AA engineer tried to charge my battery, but it wasn't holding the charge. Therefore, we arrived to the party in a tow truck and I attempted to forget about the whole thing by getting drunk.

Now I'm not feeling so clever and I'm a little worried about my car. do you think that it could be the alternator? if so, can anyone tell me how much this might cost? AND, do you think anywhere might be open in Leeds tomorrow (02/01/08) to get it done?

Thanks a lot and a happy new year to you all

Carlos

[teedeeye]

Originally Posted by medicomiller

The AA engineer tried to charge my battery, but it wasn't holding the charge.

Carlos

From the above, sounds more likely the battery has given up. I'd certainly throw a new one on before worrying about the alternator.

[VWD]

Originally Posted by teedeeye

From the above, sounds more likely the battery has given up. I'd certainly throw a new one on before worrying about the alternator.

I concur - if you can get the car to a place like Kwikfit they will test battery for you,for FREE - a swear word in stealer territory.

[FOZ1]

I would defo get a new battery,
places like Kwik Fit will be open tomorrow so no worries there.
Hope you get it soted without too much hassel.

[medicomiller]

thanks for the advice. it certainly sounds like something i can get sorted tomorrow

Although i'm not trying to go against your advice, would it be normal for a battery to just pack in when you're driving at speed on the motorway?

Thanks again

[vRSLen]

Originally Posted by medicomiller

thanks for the advice. it certainly sounds like something i can get sorted tomorrow

Although i'm not trying to go against your advice, would it be normal for a battery to just pack in when you're driving at speed on the motorway?

Thanks again

I would check the charge rate when you get one fitted to ensure
it has not been overcharging, and boiling the battery dry

[Decron]

Originally Posted by medicomiller

thanks for the advice. it certainly sounds like something i can get sorted tomorrow

Although i'm not trying to go against your advice, would it be normal for a battery to just pack in when you're driving at speed on the motorway?

Thanks again

It can happen.

I agree about the over charging too.

[medicomiller]

well thanks people. I've got the AA to take it into a garage, so we shall see what happens. Much appreciated and I'll let you know what happens