Why does it sound like something is grinding under my car?
The two most common causes of grinding noises under your car are worn brake linings or failing wheel or hub bearings. Whichever action creates the grinding noise is the affected system that needs repair.
Will a bad alternator make a grinding noise?
If your alternator is failing, you could hear a few abnormal noises. If you hear a small rattling or grinding sound when your engine is running, this could be caused by a loose bearing in your alternator.
What does a worn serpentine belt sound like?
Symptoms of a broken serpentine belt include loud slapping, squealing or knocking noises coming from under the hood. The battery-shaped charging system warning light might also come on because the alternator will stop charging the battery. If a car has a hydraulic power steering pump, the steering will become stiff.
How do you know when a serpentine belt is going bad?
If you suspect your serpentine belt is failing, watch out for the following symptoms:
- Squealing noise from the front of the vehicle. If you notice a squealing noise coming from the front of your vehicle, it could be from the serpentine belt.
- Power steering and AC not working.
- Engine overheating.
- Cracks and wear on the belt.
Why does my serpentine belt make a grinding noise?
Slowly turn the pulley of each accessory by hand, paying attention to any sounds that may arise. Any grinding noise indicates that the bearings of the pulley are worn out. This can be confirmed by fixing the belt, and marking the edge of the pulley with a piece of chalk.
What causes a grinding noise on a pulley?
Any grinding noise indicates that the bearings of the pulley are worn out. This can be confirmed by fixing the belt, and marking the edge of the pulley with a piece of chalk. Then run the engine, and if the appearance of the mark coincides with the belt noise, then this indicates a damaged bearing.
What does a serpentine belt do in a car?
A serpentine belt is a single rubber belt fitted in modern cars, that drives all the accessories like the alternator, water pump, hydraulic steering, and A/C compressor. It is a wide rubber belt that transfers the power of the engine, to various pulleys, which, in turn, drive these accessories.
Why do I hear a squealing noise when I start my car?
A squealing noise heard when starting the engine, turning, or accelerating, is most probably due to a loose or worn-out serpentine belt, rather than damaged pulleys or tensioner system. Turn on the engine, and open the car hood. Using an atomizer, spray some water on the inner, ribbed portion of the belt, just before it leads into a pulley.