Slight squeek when my car starts
brock50
07-03-2008, 08:01 PM
When I start my 2001 corolla le there is a slight squeal. Is this my timing belt going out or do I have a timing belt?
Thank you,
Brock
Thank you,
Brock
Copytech99
07-07-2008, 08:58 AM
You have a timing chain, And a single serpentine drive belt.
jdmccright
07-07-2008, 11:58 AM
It's possible that one of the accessory pulleys (for the A/C, alternator, or power steering) is slipping a little when you start it up, due to some contamination on one of the pulleys, a weak belt tensioner, a failing idler pulley, or that accessory is getting more difficult to turn after sitting still due to bearing wear. If the belt hasn't been changed in a while (or since new) then I'm guessing the belt is worn and should be changed.
Does it only happen when starting cold? Does it continue to squeak for a minute or so, then quiet down? If so, I'd suspect a failing bearing somewhere. Squirt a little WD-40 on the shaft behind each accessory pulley...not ON the pulley where the belt rides! If it stops, you found the problem spot. Also give the idler and tensioner pulleys a shot.
Does it also happen if you rev the engine? If it does and it only chirps for a second or so then it could be a loose or worn belt. If it chirps for a longer period then I'd suspect an accessory. Hope this helps!
Does it only happen when starting cold? Does it continue to squeak for a minute or so, then quiet down? If so, I'd suspect a failing bearing somewhere. Squirt a little WD-40 on the shaft behind each accessory pulley...not ON the pulley where the belt rides! If it stops, you found the problem spot. Also give the idler and tensioner pulleys a shot.
Does it also happen if you rev the engine? If it does and it only chirps for a second or so then it could be a loose or worn belt. If it chirps for a longer period then I'd suspect an accessory. Hope this helps!
brock50
07-07-2008, 12:15 PM
It is noticiable when it is cold more than when it is warm out. Also, once I drive about a mile or so it goes away and there are no more problems.
jdmccright
07-07-2008, 12:29 PM
Try the WD-40 method...when it stops squeaking, even for a little while, you've found the problem. Usually you can hear where the squeaking is coming from...front or rear of the engine...try to locate its general area this way. Then start shooting the pulleys in that area.
One note I'll add is for the A/C pulley. Does the noise happen when the A/C is off? Only on? For this accessory, first turn the A/C off, listen for the squeak, then squirt the WD-40 onto the face of the pulley, ideally between the outer part that does rotate and the inner part that isn't. That is the A/C clutch. If no difference or not squealing when off, turn the A/C on and listen for it. Then try to squirt the WD-40 between the pulley and the compressor body...it may take more than one shot to get in there. If it stops, then your compressor shaft bearing is going bad. Good luck!
One note I'll add is for the A/C pulley. Does the noise happen when the A/C is off? Only on? For this accessory, first turn the A/C off, listen for the squeak, then squirt the WD-40 onto the face of the pulley, ideally between the outer part that does rotate and the inner part that isn't. That is the A/C clutch. If no difference or not squealing when off, turn the A/C on and listen for it. Then try to squirt the WD-40 between the pulley and the compressor body...it may take more than one shot to get in there. If it stops, then your compressor shaft bearing is going bad. Good luck!
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