My car started and ran fine for 10 mins then restarted and engine revs keep dying when foot off accelerator so cuts out engine and loose power steering when slowing at junctions! Do you know what the cause is and how to mend it please!!

Elaine, January 2010

loss of power steering could be caused by the alternator dying if the pas pump is electronic (it is on astras so ford may be the same). if it is dying this could also cause the car to cut out at low revs as there may not be enough amps to power the fuel pump. get an electrical tester (multimeter) and test the voltage at the battery when the car is running and when the car is switched off. if the voltage is lower when the car is running its probably the alternator.

Joe, January 2010