I have a 2004 Mazda 3 5 spd/65k mi. After 3 wks of sub-freezing temps, the first warm-ish day and… I heard the click. Thought it was my cd in the dash, so I sang along and ignored it (3 mi) until it accelerated, then stopped as my battery light went on…I was on a bridge, so as soon as I got off, I pulled into a parking lot, as I pulled into the space, the temperature shot up…distance from bridge to spot, 5 blocks…had it towed. What’s wrong with my car?
Probably a broken accessory belt. The serpentine belt drives both the alternator and water pump. Probably no additional damage. New belt, and your good.