Loud squeal; car dies while driving

Tiny
MDH4
  • MEMBER
  • 1991 HONDA ACCORD
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 244,000 MILES
Hi there!

Yesterday I was driving approximately 50-60km/h when all of a sudden the check engine light appeared and the interior dash lights started to dim and then the car lost power and came to a full stop - al within about 15seconds. I tried to start the car again and nothing, it wouldn't even turn over. For the last few weeks - everytime I start my car there is a very loud squeaking noise coming from the engine area (perhaps a belt). The sound usually continues for a few minutes, and then stops completely. This is the first time the car has completely lost power like this. Could this be my alternator, battery, or maybe even main relay (i had it re-soldered a year ago and was told it could go at anytime)? I checked the belt and it seems tight.

Thanks!
Friday, January 10th, 2014 AT 12:32 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
SATURNTECH9
  • MECHANIC
  • 30,869 POSTS
The first thing you should do is have your battery charged and tested also pop your alternator belt loose and see if the alternator siezed up?Do you have a multi meter to do some testing?
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Friday, January 10th, 2014 AT 2:54 PM
Tiny
MDH4
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Unfortunately I don't have a meter. Any other suggestions? How can I tell if the alternator seized up?
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Friday, January 10th, 2014 AT 3:02 PM
Tiny
SATURNTECH9
  • MECHANIC
  • 30,869 POSTS
I just mentioned that pop the belt off the alternator pulley and see if the alternator pulley will turn freely by hand.
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Friday, January 10th, 2014 AT 3:50 PM
Tiny
HONDATECH1983
  • MECHANIC
  • 109 POSTS
It you're dash lights went out you could have a bad ignition switch.
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Thursday, January 16th, 2014 AT 6:42 PM

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