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2012 BMW 3-Series 328i 4dr Sedan RWD SULEV

2012 BMW 3-Series
Trim Info:
Rear Wheel Drive, Sedan, Compact Cars
23 mpg city / 34 mpg hwy
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November 18, 2011, 9:57 am

AutomotiveForums M
 

Question: Car stopped running???

The car was running at approx. 70 mph when the battery light came on however the car kept running without any strange noises. Shortly after the abs and other lights began to come on. The car kept running for around another 5 miles and died just as it was being pulled into the carport. When I opened the hood I could smell burning, amost like rubber, but it seemed to be in the area of the alternator or power steering. Please give me any advice you have on what might be the problem and where I should start.


November 22, 2011, 8:00 pm

Ron W
Expert Mechanic

I would say the battery went dead. Probably because the alternator stopped working. When battery voltage drops you will get different lights on the dash and drivability problems to the point of the vehicle not running. You'll need to have the charging system and battery tested.


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November 23, 2011, 5:38 am

AutomotiveForums M
 

I boosted the car and drove it into the garage, but the power steering seems to not be working. Is this related to the alternator / battery problem? When checking the alternator I can see that the pulley seems to be damaged, but the belt is still on the pulley. Is there a separate belt for the power steering or could the pump be damaged?


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