Battery light is on and power steering is gone

SATURN
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SOYLESLEY
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1997 Saturn SC1, 165,000 miles - I noticed my battery light was on when I started my car and it was difficult to steer. I checked the level of power steering fluid and it was fine. Do you know what's possibly wrong.
May 7, 2006 at 5:22 PM
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LOSONE
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
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The battery light has nothing to do with your power steering.

Battery light is probably an alternator

Hard steering is probably the rack and pinion unless it has a separate belt and then it could be the belt
May 7, 2006 at 5:28 PM
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PEPPERMRJ
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 1,158 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
[quote:b6bf77bb30="soylesley"]1997 Saturn SC1, 165,000 miles - I noticed my battery light was on when I started my car and it was difficult to steer. I checked the level of power steering fluid and it was fine. Do you know what's possibly wrong.[/quote:b6bf77bb30]

It is unlikely that both units failed simultaneously. Chances are your serpentine belt and it's tensioner are either dead or dying. I would replace both.

Good luck and let us know. :)
May 7, 2006 at 10:18 PM
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