Questions and Answers

Pontiac Lemans Alternator Q. Thank you for responding to my previous e-mail. Your advice helped my car pass the smog test. I now have another problem, the seat belt indicator does not come on, the headlights and interior lamps dim when the car is started, and the battery low warning light stays red after starting the engine, yet the battery has a full charge.

The battery light gets redder when I step on the brake. After driving for a while the light goes out. The problem seems to be most prevalent during the night. I've taken the car to several auto repair shops. They told me that as long as the car is running, not to worry about it.

I feel that there is a problem that needs to be resolved. Do you have any ideas on what could cause this problem? Would it be something I can repair myself?

Also, the car makes a whoo sound when it is driven down the highway or street. I doesn't make the noise if the car is not moving and the accelerator is pressed. The car was making the sound prior to and after the smog test.

I have a Pontiac Lemans, 1.6 liter, 4 cylinder with 177,000 miles on it.

By the way, what is your opinion about using off-name brand motor oil? I usually use 10W-30 Valvoline motor oil, but I noticed a Wal-Mart brand that was less expensive. I am curious about the quality of that brand. Would you recommend using it on a 2001 Supercharged Grand Prix?

A. You need to have the charging system checked on the Lemans. Sounds like a diode is bad inside the alternator. As for the oil, stick with a name brand if you have a supercharger. Don't they recommend Mobil One for that engine?