Ford Focus Ignition warning light

John_Mc · 15-01-2011 04:51PM #1

Hi,

I have a 2002 Ford Focus 1.4 Litre petrol with 65k on the clock.

I started the car yesterday and was reversing out of my space when I heard a thud. The ignition warning light came on and has stayed on since.

I have a battery tester so tested the battery and the charging and it says there's a regulator/generator fault.

The fact that I heard a thud would lead me to believe the alternator belt snapped and that would explain why there's no charge. I had a look under the bonnet but my mechanical skills are limited and I believe the alternator and belt are concealed well within the engine compartment in this type of car.

Does my assumption sound probable? How much is it likely going to be to replace the belt and alternator if required? Is it necessary to go to a Ford dealer to get the work done or could an independent do it easily enough?

Finally, I've noticed a squeaking sound coming from the suspension/wheels when driving between 15-25 miles per hour. Any ideas what this could be?

I look after the car and it seems to be driving well besides that. Thanks very much for any advice you can give me.

Plug · 15-01-2011 05:01PM

Is the power steering gone? If so don't drive it as the engine will over heat, thats a belt problem. The belt is not concealed, its very visible down the left hand side. Did the battery light come on or the engine management light? Don't think a charging problem will put up an engine management light....

Avns1s · 15-01-2011 05:03PM

It could be the belt or something else with the alternator. The belt should be visible on the pulleys if it is intact. Do not drive the car until you get a full diagnosis as you will have no water pump if the belt is gone.

John_Mc · 15-01-2011 05:14PM

Avns1s wrote: »

It could be the belt or something else with the alternator. The belt should be visible on the pulleys if it is intact. Do not drive the car until you get a full diagnosis as you will have no water pump if the belt is gone.

Thanks for your reply. It's the battery light that came on. The car is driving fine and all electricals work fine.

Isn't the belt on the left the timing belt? I have the Haynes manual for the car and it says the alternator belt us on the right hand side.

The battery light comes on within a minute of starting the engine and it stays on.

Plug · 15-01-2011 05:28PM

Well yeah its on the right because it just is:D But when your looking in from the bonnet its down the left side. Them 3 wires going to the alternator can sometimes cause a bit off trouble. Worst case scenario you'll be looking at a new alternator...Bring it do a mechanic and he'll sort it.

Ford Focus Ignition warning light

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