Cadillac Repair: 96 Cadillac Deville serpentine belt, serpentine belt, cadillac deville

Question
Have a 96 Sedan Deville. Today "Check Battery" light came on. Within 15 miles, loss of power steering, etc. Then it shut down as I got into the drive. Got it home, and was checking battery for loss of power and found the serpentine belt was off. At first I thought the belt broke, but it was intact with no cracks at all. Why would the belt just come off the pulleys? When I touched the pulleys, I noticed the lower pulley, at the bottom rear of the motor, did not turn. Could that be a problem that caused the belt to come off? Any ideas?
Thanks in advance for your help!

Answer
Hi Myra,

   Good thing you made it home and weren't stranded somewhere. Sounds like you found your problem. When a pully locks up  usually there is a loud squealing noise along with smoke and burnt rubber smell because the belt is trying to turn and one of the pullies is trying to keep it from turning.

    Since the belt came off I would inspect it to make sure it is ok but if unsure or it has been in use for several years then replace it. Then you will need to have the componant replaced that the pully doesn't turn and see if there was a reason that needs to be corrected so the new one doesn't also lock up.

    Hope that answers your question and have a Happy Holiday. Bill