Mazda Protege problem

[bteam]

I was driving into work today, and all of the sudden the battery light went on, and the engine started to overheat. The air coming out of the vents was cold, but the fan seemed to work (although not as strongly as it did before). When I got to work, I tried to start the car, but it wouldn't start.
Any ideas what may be the issue?
Thanks in advance for your input.

[Rich]

Originally Posted by bteam

I was driving into work today, and all of the sudden the battery light went on, and the engine started to overheat. The air coming out of the vents was cold, but the fan seemed to work (although not as strongly as it did before). When I got to work, I tried to start the car, but it wouldn't start.
Any ideas what may be the issue?
Thanks in advance for your input.

Sounds like you may have lost your Serpentine Belt. Without the belt, your alternator will stop turning, and your voltage will drop, thus turning on the battery indicator, and you will be running on the battery only, that would explain your slow fan motor, and inability to restart the car. Also, with no belt, your water pump will not be turning, coolant will not be circulated through the radiator or the heater core (explains the lack of heat from the vents), and you overheat quickly.

Pop the hood and check the drive belts first. How badly did it overheat? I would reccomend towing the vehicle a Certified Mazda dealer or a good repair shop that you are comfortable with and have them check it out. Hopefully the overheating caused no serious damage, and have them put a new belt on, charge your battery and make sure all of the pullies are turning, and nothing is siezed, hopefully you just pay a bit of labour and a new belt.


Hope that helps....

[bteam]

Let's hope...thanks so much for your input.