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Renault Clio 2001,1.2 16v dynamique electrical fault?
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hargreaves90
New User
Nov 20, 2013, 8:28 AM
Post #1 of 2
(1583 views)
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Renault Clio 2001,1.2 16v dynamique electrical fault?
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01 plate
Renault
Clio
1.2 dynamique 16v
65,000 miles
Started the engine and I noticed the light on my clock had dimmed I then went to click the electric windows and the lights dimmed and fully turned my steering wheel to get out of a tight spot and the lights dimmed again,
I took my car to the garage a few weeks later and they checked the battery which was ok and the alternator was fine too, all the earths were fine they said to me but they think its and electrical fault but not sure where?
Does anyone have any idea what could be wrong/how to fix/or advice
Many thanks
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Nov 20, 2013, 9:35 AM
Post #2 of 2
(1571 views)
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Re: Renault Clio 2001,1.2 16v dynamique electrical fault?
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This vehicle not sold where most regulars are, N. America but doesn't matter much so far. This seems like a shared belt for alternator and power steering is too loose such that when power steering is working hard on the belt and really should have a better grip allows alternator to slip in essence just what battery power is available.
When engine is running the operating voltage is and should be higher than plain battery alone. Say 12.2V becomes probably 13.5 to 14+ a bit volts such that lights would be a bit brighter.
If my theory is correct you would see this on a voltmeter. Can only guess at what is likely but could include other reasons like....
* You are turning way too hard to the end of range of steering and stressing the PS pump so much it could lower engine idle speed. Usually if doing that belt would screech but not always.
* Battery may even dip below reasonable normal voltage. May or may not trigger a warning light or show on a dash gauge.
A couple things to do.....
* Avoid trying to steer more than the end of steering travel if you do that. It's hard on pump, hoses, belt and won't steer more anyway.
* Check that belt is PROPERLY TIGHT. Too tight not good, too loose not good so know it's right.
* Battery load test observing voltage. Rare but some will have enough power to start engine (highest load it has to do) but not adequate otherwise.
** May be all off on my guess. If the lights are as dim when engine off and key on run position it's voltage that isn't staying in range.
It always helps to know all battery connections are good and clean and all grounds (earth wires you say) are good as well.
If alternator and power steering do NOT share the same belt AND engine RPM is staying up enough this would likely be some other gremlin,
T
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