UK Car Repair: Vectra 2.0 auto Electrics, shade tree mechanic, vauxhall vectra

Question
I have a 1998 Vauxhall Vectra 2.0 litre 16 v, automatic. I got into my car yesterday when i noticed that the air bag sign was lit up, then as i went to pull away from a roundabout there wasn't much power in the car, and the light came on for the automatic transmission. There is also a funny noice the car is making. I also noticed that all the needles on the display (petrol, temp, rev counter and speedo) where going up to start with until the car picked up its speed and then they would drop. I have drove the car today by going through the gears my self . But still the lights are coming on, and then the windows would not open and then once the car was stopped and re-started they worked again. I do not have a clue about cars so any info would be appreciated. Many thanks  

Answer
Not having a clue will make this easier to deal with than wanting to fix it yourself despite it and hitting walls at every turn. There are just some things outside of an enthusiast’s ability and there is nothing wrong with that.  This is FAR outside a hobbyist’s realm of expertise.

So, instead of rattling on and on about tests needed involving thousands of dollars worth of equipment you would only use once, I will give you the best advice you will hear on the subject.

Take it to the Garage; it is not safe to drive. It might turn out to be as simple as a wayward alternator. It also may be a failing BCM “body control module”. Hard to tell without seeing it for myself. Have it looked at by a DEALERSHIP and not a back yard wrench. The diagnostic process will be expedited due to the availability of technical reference for the automobile in question that a shade tree mechanic just doesn’t have access to.

Regards,

John