Hi guys

I have a seicento 899c 2000 (x reg) and I'm having a few probs. Firstly the temperature gauge light comes on even if I've only been in it for 5 mins firstly faint but then really strongly. Secondly and more irritating I'm going through alternator belts for fun - had 3 since owning him in May. The other night whilst driving to work it snapped with no warning and left me with no steering which as a new driver ( 2 weeks!) terrified me. The battery also isn't holding charge. It was fully charged yest morning but by evening it was down to Orange

Could this be one prob or many?

I love my car and my partner wants to set fire to him so please help!!

Well if the auxiliary belt snaps must be for a reason...there is defo something wrong with pulleys or tensioners that are likely to be worn and edgy enough to stress belt to snap. If the battery doesnt hold charge means that alternator is not working properly. Do you have a red battery simbol on dash lit? Regarding temp gauge sound like a blockage somewhere or faulty thermostat...then again check water level and condition of radiator and hoses. Hope this helps to save this car not to be burned!!

It sounds like one problem that is causing your other problems.

The belt drives the water pump and alternator, it sounds like your alternator or water pump are seizing causing the belt to strain and therefore snap. Your overheating is defineatly water pump related as the water wouldnt heat up that quick without good circulation. Something isnt turning freely causing all of these problems. Is your belt squealing at all?

Take the belt off and turn your alternator and water pump and power steering pump pullys by hand, they should be easy to turn but with a small amount of resistance, if there is something wrong with either of them you will be able to tell.

Your engine performance may also be affected by this, be careful as the engine is overheating and damage will occur if it gets too hot!

Hope this helps

Chris