TheBosna

So I was just driving, and As I was pulling into a parking lot the dash flashed a check battery/alternator and my steering got so heavy to the point that I couldnt steer at all. Anybody know what's wrong?

CJackson13

None of your pulleys are spinning as they should so your serpentine belt is probably shredded. Open the hood and check.

Tow the car to a shop and they'll install a new one for you.

TheBosna

Turns out my idler pulley flew off and the belt went with it. Lost the pulley, still have the belt. Have to pick up a new pulley, shouldn't be too tough to install.

Serndipity

Idler pulley failure is very common, because it's the smallest pulley within the belt system (e.g. spins fastest), is made of plastic and has a single bearing.

Failure while driving is not a happy experience (e.g. loss of cooling, power steering etc.).

It's only a $20 part and as preventive maintenance, when I changed mine at 85,000 miles, the pulley had already developed 3 cracks.

It's attached with 1 bolt and a very easy DIY repair. You'll find additional information here.........

https://mbworld.org/forums/clk-class...tensioner.html

Note: It will be more work on your CLK430 because there is not enough clearance to remove the bolt without moving the radiator as well.

Scott Simoncic

While you're in there, just do a new belt as well... It's cheap insurance, and it's just the smart thing to do.