2000 Dodge Stratus High pitched squeaking noise

GILLIPSEE

MEMBER
2000 DODGE STRATUS
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
118,000 MILES

My car has started making a very high pitched squeaking noise when driving over 10 mph, or anytime accelerating. It continues to make the same noise even if I am coasting over 10 mph. It is definitely coming from the front of the car and does not sound like it's coming from either front wheel area.

It has been raining quite a bit where I live and I do know that sometimes wet belts make noises, but it has not made this noise before and I was hoping to get some help to figure out what exactly it was. Thank you very much in advance.

4 Replies

IMPALASS

MECHANIC
3,112 POSTS

Hello -

To better assist you is your model the ES or SE and what is your engine size in liter.

This sound, it doesn't do it at idle at all?

In idle if the engine is raced a little?

In drive with your foot on the brake?

So the sound is only when you are moving not sitting

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Tuesday, December 15th, 2009 AT 6:05 PM

GILLIPSEE

MEMBER
2 POSTS

[quote="ImpalaSS"]Hello -
1. SE

2. Yes, it does make the sound at idle and if my foot is on the break.

3. I sprayed my belt with WD40 and the noise has stopped. I'm not sure if that's the solution or just a stop gap. The belt is almost brand new (I think it's my timing belt), less than 2 months old.

Thank you again.

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Wednesday, December 16th, 2009 AT 9:01 AM

IMPALASS

MECHANIC
3,112 POSTS

Hello -

Thanks for the info.....

I'm sorry but you forgot to include your engine size in liter.......

Based off of what you said I believe it is your automatic belt tensioner....... The spring may be weak and not keeping enough tension on the belt......... The WD40 is masking it or allowing it to slip more freely.

Once the belt is off also check all of the pulley wheels for freedom of rotation, any noise, grinding etc. All should spin nice and free.

Check AutoZone or O'Reilly's for the part.......

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Wednesday, December 16th, 2009 AT 7:04 PM

IMPALASS

MECHANIC
3,112 POSTS

Hello -

Also, it looks like you may have some recalls on your vehicle. The dealer may fix these for free. Please contact the dealer service department, give them the VIN number of your car and have them check on these to see if they apply to you.