| Subject: | Engine noise, power problem |
| Question: | I have a 1999 Mitsubishi
Mirage DE manual. It makes a squeeling noise for a few seconds like a
loose belt. Does not always happen during acceleration. Happens when just
driving at a constant speed. When that happens the radio goes dead, battery
and brake light come on. Everything else still works fine. Interior light
and headlights do not dim, brakes still work fine, heater still kicks
out heat. It's just these warning lights come on and radio goes dead.
Then they are back to normal within a minute or two. This all happens
whenever the squeeling noise occurs. If you have any idea what this could
be any help will be very appreciated. I have not had any major repairs
on this car yet, except replacing sparkplug wires. It has 68,000 miles
on it.
|
| Answer: | Curtis, Your problem is most likely with your alternator, alternator belt, or belt tensioner. Its possible that your alternator is going bad, though its not too likely. Your car doesn't have too many miles and its only 4 years old. If you ever do any towing or carry have loads in your car, that will put a lot of stress on your alternator. I think the most likely problem is with your alternator belt and/or tensioner. Under acceleration, your belt is tighter and will turn the pulley on your alternator. Durning constant speeds, your belt will develope slack if it worn or set to the wrong tension. When there's not enough tension, the alternator will not have enough power, and your car's computer will prioritize the energy usage. Since your radio can use up a signifigant amount of power and not needed for the operation of the car, it will be shut off. And since your alternator charges your battery, your battery light will come on when your when that belt is slipping. So, odds are your battery may be weak as well. You'll want to have that checked out as well. Replace if necessary. Your local garage mechanic can usually perform these inspections for you. Just ask him to specifically look at your alternator and belt to be sure it has the correct tension. This way they can't charge you for the labor of looking at "everything" Good luck! |