So I went to the mall with my g/f yesterday. When I started my MINI back up to leave, the battery light was on. I checked the voltage on my ScanGauge and it was showing 11.3 constant (normally it was around 13.5-14.2) and I started driving and the power steering wasn't working at all. I went to Autozone and they tested the battery. They said the battery was good, but needed a charge. I'm thinking that alternator isn't charging the battery fully. Would a low voltage from the alternator cause the power steering to shut off though? Any help would be appreciated.

 

If i remember right, there is a "sense" wire of sorts, connected to the alternator from the ps pump...when there is no output from the alternator (determined by voltage), the pump turns off...

 

thanks! that's what i was figuring as well. just wanted to a second opinion.