Friday 13th and Focus St-2 problems

[zegermans]

Afternoon chaps, wonder if any of you could lend your expertise please? My 2006 st 2 developed a horrible whining noise last night. Sounded like a belt was slipping. Got home and opened the bonnet to find a lot of smoke and a burning smell. Battery symbol was up on the dash so assuming this has something to do with the alternator? Now, it's just cut out on me completely with last message on the dash saying power steering has failed, no power at all now though. Can anyone shed any light on this please? I know it's not the common fault with the oil filter diaphragm as did this last month! Was updated to the newer part which is supposed to remove the problem in future. Any help would be much appreciated. Friday 13th eh

[Justin S]

I'd be looking at the alternator. It also drives the power steering. Another common problem on the ST's

[zegermans]

Thanks Justin. Have you encountered this problem with your ST? Do you think it's the alternator altogether or just the belt from the sounds of things? I'm hoping to have another look this weekend. Just haven't had the time to get round to it this week yet

[rb5er]

I would also guess to look at the alternator.

[Justin S]

No problem with mine yet, but they are common failure. Usually a noisy bearing is a sign, before the alternator seizes.