2002 Subaru Forester Chirping sound

Tiny
HEATJACK
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 SUBARU FORESTER
  • 202,000 MILES
I have a 2002 Subaru Forester, which I just purchased used. The engine makes a chirping noise when I have my headlights on or my foot on the brake. Starting last night my car doesn't want to start on my first try, usually the third which came out of nowhere, no problems before or even hesitation starting.
Sunday, November 17th, 2013 AT 8:15 AM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
When you use the lights or place your foot on the brake, there is an electrical draw from the battery. As a result, the alternator works harder. My guess is that you have a loose or worn alternator belt. Check it and let me know its condition.

Joe
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Sunday, November 17th, 2013 AT 3:26 PM
Tiny
HEATJACK
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
My belts seem to be fine. My car won't turn over at all now. I guess it's called, no crank no start, just a single click and nothing. No noise from the engine at all.
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Sunday, November 17th, 2013 AT 7:53 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
That sounds like a dead battery. Have you checked that?
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Monday, November 18th, 2013 AT 4:57 AM
Tiny
HEATJACK
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Yes, I checked the battery, it's fine. I'm going with it being a starter problem and having it replaced tomorrow. Fingers crossed that this will at least solve my no starting issue. I appreciate your help. Very nice of you to supply information for us less advanced people when it comes to dealing with automobiles.
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Monday, November 18th, 2013 AT 5:21 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Let me know what you find.
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Monday, November 18th, 2013 AT 8:18 AM
Tiny
HEATJACK
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Just wanted to check in. The problem with the car starting was in fact the starter. All fixed now and no labor charges (thanks to wonderful neighbors). While under the hood, he believes the chirping sound is coming from the AC belt. He tried tightening it, but said I would need a new belt. Needless to say, I'm a happy camper. Thanks again for your words of advice. Have a great holiday and hopefully you won't be hearing from me any time soon.
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Tuesday, November 19th, 2013 AT 3:46 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Glad to help and to know you got it running. As far as the belt, here is a simple trick to locate where the noise is coming from. Make sure you have old cloths on and eye protection.

Start the engine and open the hood. Pour a small amount of water on each belt, one at a time. When the noise stops or changes, you found the belt that is making the noise.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Tuesday, November 19th, 2013 AT 5:09 PM

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