2000 Hyundai Accent GL Timing Belt

CRBATY

MEMBER
2000 HYUNDAI

2000 Hyundai Accent GL 73,000 Thankyou to anyone that can help me. I'm a female with no repair knowledge. I was told by a reputable mechanic that it is common for Accents to throw their timing belts around 60,000-70,000 miles. My engine squeals like the belts are loose on startup. When I start it in cold temps, the noise is louder until it warms up. At 30 degrees temp, the wipers, headlights, and heater slowed down like the engine was straining. Does it sound realistic this could be the timing belt that needs replaced? If so, is it recommended to have the dealer do this work, or can other repair shops do it?

1 Reply

SERVICE WRITER

MECHANIC
9,123 POSTS

The timing belt is NOT the cause of the squeal or the cold temp symptoms. That is the serpentine belt that is slipping. The serp belt wraps around the alternater which is causing the cold start electrical issues The are a variety of reasons that may be causing the slippage. Having said that, I do agree on changing the timing belt at your miliage, the srpentine belt will have to come off to do this.

Who ever does the job, I recommend an independent garage, preferably the one that advised you on the timing belt to do the job, a dealer is not needed. HAve the find out the source of the squeal first before doing anything. You will need to have the car there overnight so the problem haopens then. Tell them they have limited time before the noise stops.