2004 MCS; 150K; battery new 4 months ago; original alternator; new pulley tensioner and belt; new idler; ATI crank damper several years ago.

Today I drove about 15 miles to run an errand. On my return I stopped for a burger. Upon restarting the car I sensed that the power steering pump wasn't working, but a moment later it came on and all was well, or so I thought. I drove off. A few minutes later I realized that the battery light was on. The power steering was working, and there were no other indicators. I drove the remaining 5 miles home with no problem. Shut the car off and inspected the engine bay but all looked well. Car restarted with no problem but battery light still on. However, no power steering assist. Pump was replaced several years ago under the recall.

Thoughts? TIA.

 

I suspect that it is the alternator voltage regulator. Is that easily replaced without removing the alternator from the car?

 

It is likely the alternator brushes are worn to a point that now barely making contact with the slip ring commutator. It starts as intermittent no charge. Power steering requires the alternator charging to function. I suggest you look into replacing the alternator.

 

Makes sense. I may have a good used voltage regulator on the shelf. Is it possible to change the regulator without removing the alternator from the car? If not then yes I will replace the entire alternator. Thanks.

 

It have been eons since I worked on an alternator problem that I forgot with most modern cars the brushes are a part of the regulator.




When you have the worn regulator out, I suggest visually inspect the copper slip rings. More likely than not they should be fine.

 

Thanks again. Any idea whether I can R&R the regulator with the alternator in the car?

 

Sorry. Zero experience with the alternator in MCS. Mine still has many miles to go before it sleeps.

 

If you look carefully at the (supersized) photos here that will give you some idea how feasible.

 

thanks.

 

 

I have a new alternator on the way. Yes, I concluded that it was not possible to install the regulator in the alternator without removing the alternator from the car.