Cadillac Repair: altenator fan belt, cold engine, fan belt

Question
Bill, if we can't fix this ourselves, can we drive it 2.5 miles to have it fixed?
thank you, crystal

Answer
Hi Crystal, Most batteries have enough reserve to allow you to drive for awhile before the engine will stop running. If you don't have to use the headlights and keep all the electrical accessories off then you will be able to go a longer distance. With a fully charged battery you should be ok to drive so long as you can turn the steering wheel and the water pump is still turning. If you have a serpentine belt then the water pump won't be able to turn and you run the risk of overheating the engine before getting to the shop. If that is the case it might be best to have it towed. However if you have to drive 2.5 miles at 30mph with a cold engine then it should make it but if you had to wait for lights or go 40mph or faster then maybe not. Bill