Why does the serpentine belt make a chipping noise?
This chipping sound will follow the engine RPM (engine speed). Inspect the belt for glazing which is a shinny condition inside the belt grooves. To check if this the problem spray a little WD40 on the belt while the engine is running if the noise goes away the serpentine belt needs to be replaced.
How can you tell if a car belt is a chirp or a squeal?
One method to determine if the noise is a chirp or squeal is to use a water squirt bottle and spray the rib side of the belt while the vehicle is running. If the noise gets louder, it’s a squeal. If the noise goes away, it’s a chirp.
How can I tell if my serpentine belt is out of alignment?
Belt tension on the pulley pulls the shaft off center, which puts that pulley out of alignment with the other pulleys. Pulley alignment can be checked with a straightedge. Place the straightedge across two pulley faces. The straightedge should lie flat across them. If it doesn’t, one of the pulleys is misaligned.
What kind of car has serpentine belt problems?
If a belt problem still isn’t solved after doing all of the above, your car may have a specific problem unique to that make and model. Certain vehicles have known serpentine belt problems, such as 1996–2000 Chrysler-built minivans with the 3.0-, 3.3-, and 3.8-liter engines.
What to do if your serpentine belt is making a noise?
Belt noises can be diagnosed with a spray bottle of water. With the engine running and the sound audible, lightly mist the grooved side of the belt with water. If the noise disappears or lessens, but then shortly returns, the problem is probably a misaligned pulley.
One method to determine if the noise is a chirp or squeal is to use a water squirt bottle and spray the rib side of the belt while the vehicle is running. If the noise gets louder, it’s a squeal. If the noise goes away, it’s a chirp.
Is the serpentine belt a serious car problem?
A serpentine belt problem is one of the more serious car problems. Not serious in terms of replacement but rather in terms of the consequences it may have if neglected or not recognized on time. This belt has a huge and important role in the proper functioning of your car. So, if you don’t take action on time, it may cause severe damage.
What makes a belt sound like a squeal?
If you have belt noise that sounds like a squeal or chirp, you’ve got an underlying problem that must be fixed. The #1 cause of serpentine belt noise is a worn automatic serpentine belt tensioner. Most people blame the belt and replace it only to find the belt noise returns.