Corsa-B.uk - Vauxhall, Opel and Holden Corsa B Owners Club

Hi, i have a T reg 1.2 16v corsa B
Basically i have a problem in that when i start my engine the starter motor makes a grinding noise, like if you overturn the key, without actually over turning it.

But at the same time my alternator light is starting to come on very dim, and at night time my dashboard lights seem to be dim. The alternator isnt making any noise, and there are no other problems with the car at all.

So i was wondering, are the two problems (for some weird reason) connected, or is it just coincident? My guesses are that either the alt. belt needs tightning and my starter motor is going. but any other suggestions? Like maybe the battery?
Cheers

Its randomly stopped now, no idea why ????

CREEPERRR wrote:Hi, i have a T reg 1.2 16v corsa B
Basically i have a problem in that when i start my engine the starter motor makes a grinding noise, like if you overturn the key, without actually over turning it.

Sounds like your start motor is stuffed, not trowing in far enough on to the flywheel, hopefully it hasn't don't to much damage to the teeth on the flywheel.

CREEPERRR wrote:But at the same time my alternator light is starting to come on very dim, and at night time my dashboard lights seem to be dim. The alternator isnt making any noise, and there are no other problems with the car at all.

If you have a multi-meter you should check your alternator output,

another thing your can try, at night when you think the lights are dimming tap your alternator a couple times and see if your light become brighter, if they do your brushes are worn out in the alternator