|
Accessory Drive Belt
Sounds like you lost the accessory belt. It runs the alternator which generates electricity while you are running - the battery will keep everything going for a short time but without charge from the alternator, the battery will discharge (go flat) really quickly hence fade out.
The accessory belt also drives the power steering pump which provide hydraulic assistance for the steering. The other thing to look at last night was your engine temperature as accessory belts may also run the water pump which prevents the car from overheating (as well as the air conditioning compressor). If you ran the car without the water pump serious engine damage from overheating is possible...
Replace the belt (you'll find the specifications for the belt and instructions for fitting in the owner's manual) BEFORE driving the vehicle again. Otherwise you risk overheating the engine... you'll also need to charge the battery.
|