Knackered PAS Pump orAlternator?

[Skywalker80]

If I have my headlights on in my 130 Tdi Sport and turn the steering wheel, the lights dim.

Also sounds like the pump is 'groaning' a little, just wondered if anyone has had this problem?
The alternator is charging as it should though, I'm kinda hoping it just needs a new belt but in reality will prob be another PAS pump.

Any ideas of how much a second hand would cost?

 

[pete34a]

Headlights dimming when you turn the wheel is normal. The PAS is electric as opposed to running off the engine, and draws a lot of current. If you work the PAS hard, as you do when the car's at a standstill, it'll cause the headlights to dim.

As for the groaning noise, I'm not sure. But the headlight dimming doesn't mean there's a problem.

 

[beezanick]

All normal, especialy if you do it after just starting the engine.

 

[Skywalker80]

Ah, nice one guys, cheers for clearing that up.
Only had the car six weeks and still have warranty left so thought i'd see if there was anything else I could get out of the garage.

They've already replaced my instrument panel with a new one as the gauges had a mind of their own

 

[Neo]

Mine used to do that but...

Has anyone else with HID`s fitted noticed the dimming does`nt happen anymore or is it just me?
I still get the slight noise but the electrical system must not be as strained (when turning) due to the lower current consumption of the ballasts.

 

[RUM4MO]

Mine used to do that but...

Has anyone else with HID`s fitted noticed the dimming does`nt happen anymore or is it just me?
I still get the slight noise but the electrical system must not be as strained (when turning) due to the lower current consumption of the ballasts.

With HIDs, the light is created by an arc - so its actually gas glowing, it would not quickly slightly reduce in brightness, it would be more prone to "drop out" if the supply dropped to far. Filament bulbs light output varies very quickly when the supply voltage is dropped - and as you say they take more current to run them.

 

[beezanick]

Mine used to do that but...

Has anyone else with HID`s fitted noticed the dimming does`nt happen anymore or is it just me?
I still get the slight noise but the electrical system must not be as strained (when turning) due to the lower current consumption of the ballasts.

Its because the voltage and current going to the bulbs is regulated by the ballests. They will continue to put out a constant voltage, aslong as the input is within range (7V-24V on mine) and will just draw more current to compensate.

 

[Neo]

So yes then?

 

[beezanick]

So yes then?