"ALTERNATOR WORKSHOP" & Timing belt question

[stevie_wonder]

Was just driving tonight and as i was driving got a beep from dashboard computer, then looked down and saw the indicator warning light of "ALTERNATOR WORKSHOP" and the battery light came on. As that happened there was a tightening of my steering like the power had gone out but the warning message and battery light only stayed on for literally a second. I drove up 10 minutes and it happened twice and then coming back home it happened again.

What do you guys think it is? I am going to check the battery out tomorrow morning, and if its not that i presume it'd be the alternator??? THis is the first time this has happened and i drove it during the day and nothing happened but once i had lights on tonight it happened. Would that play a part?

Also, just out of curiosity, whats the best way to check a timing belt on the car? Is there any physical features i could look out for or would it have to be taken off to be assessed thoroughly?

Let me know what you guys think!

Thanks heaps for any advice or thoughts!

[Type 17]

you most likely need a new battery, to check the belt you need to look for any ripping, tearing, cracking make sure it looks ok, if that makes sense, if it looks worn, then it is time to change, if it looks sweet, then you are alright.

[Felix]

If the timing belt has never been replaced, then just replace it. Cheap insurance.

[Keizer23q]

Timimg belt to be changed at 120 000 kms approx if urmcomcerned just change it because theres nothing worse then worring when things are going to break