Hi all,



Hoping somebody could help give me a rough idea what theproblem might be. Sorry for the long message!



Basically, I broke down about 2 weeks ago, and was advised Ineeded a new battery and alternator. The garage fitted these, but – quite often– I would start the car and the battery light would be on, and the powersteering wasn’t working. So I would turn the ignition off and start the caragain, and everything would be fine.



Obviously I wasn’t happy with this, so went back to thegarage who said it must be a faulty alternator and replaced the alternator butI am still having the same problem – every now and again when starting the car forthe first time the battery light appears and so I have to switch off and onagain. This issue was not happening before I broke down, and therefore in mymind, it looks as though whatever they have done has caused this problem.



They have now said that they need their electronicsspecialist to come in and have a look. But just wondering if anybody hasencountered a similar issue and can give me a heads up as to what this mightbe.



Thanks in advance

Check all the earth straps. Seems to be a common fault that these cars have and it can be fine one minute and rubbish the next. How did they diagnose a faulty battery and alternator?

Is the alternator original (fiat denso) part?

Also, next time, don't switch off the engine but give it a good rev and watch if battery light goes off.

Thanks for the replies.

They diagnosed the battery and alternator because I broke down on the way to work. The radio went off and then slowly the car just died. Recovery vehicle came and did their tests, and the alternator had packed up. Took it to the garage who replaced both the alternator and the battery. To be completely frank with you, I am not sure if it is an original Fiat Denso alternator - will have to check my paperwork tonight.

Tried the revving suggestion but unfortunately the issue still occurs. My MOT is due at the end of this week so I will ask them to look at the Earth Straps whilst it is in for MOT, to see if this is the problem.

Thanks both - will keep you updated. Just praying it doesn't cost too much - already forked out enough on the battery and alternator.