Problems with Power Steering

[ChronoMac]

Guys, I'm a complete moron when it comes to anything automotive related, so please help me figure out what's up with my 2000 Ford Explorer Sport.

Yesterday, I cranked my car and heard a weird, metal-scrapping sort of noise when the car started. Then, as I pulled out of my parking spot, I noticed that I had lost power steering and the light shaped like a battery was lit on my dash. I drove around the parking lot until I decided to park it again and when I pulled back in, this was sitting on the ground where my car had been:

Sorry for the crappy picture (I used my phone). I'm guessing it's important and that it fell out when I cranked the car. Any idea what this is, why it's important, and if it's the source of my problems?

Also, I don't know if this is related, but my AC is only blowing out hot air. Could that be affected my this part, or the steering? Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[Blee1099]

That is your belt tensioner.. Obviously it failed.. A repalcement is about $40 at your local parts store..

 

[section525]

Now your belt is loose. Which means no fan, no water pump, to alt charging... no bueno. Easy fix though.

Driving it will cause overheating. So, fix it first.

 

[ChronoMac]

How do I change this out? Like I said, I'm a noob with this stuff. Should I go to AutoZone, or some other parts store, and see if they can do it?

 

[fixxxer]

The parts stores can sell you a new belt tensioner but the labor will be up to you or any garage you pick. Very easy to replace, you should do it yourself and I'd recommend getting a new serpentine belt when you get the tensioner.

 

[ChronoMac]

So I went to AutoZone and got a new tensioner for $40 and then went across the street to a repair guy my friends use. He showed me where the tensioner was suppose to go and how it came out. But then he showed me how, when it failed, it struck the radiator and created a huge hole on the left side. Instead of a simple $50 charge to bolt on the tensioner it's now going to be $500 for a new radiator.

I would be angry or upset, but I've had this car 5 years and this is the first time it's ever broken down. Thanks for the help anyway!