What are the causes of a brand new serpentine belt squealing only on start up?

Tiny
BAABBOTT
  • MEMBER
  • 2008 HYUNDAI ELANTRA
  • 73,500 MILES
I just replaced my serpentine and AC belts. Now, the serpentine belt squeals for about 5-7 seconds on start up only (not everytime though). Is this cause for concern? Will the belt "self-tighten"? I know its not the AC belt as it does not squeal during AC use. I will gladly take any suggestions. It has been about 2 weeks since the belts were changed.

Thank you.
Tuesday, September 20th, 2011 AT 10:15 PM

3 Replies

Tiny
MHPAUTOS
  • MECHANIC
  • 31,937 POSTS
Either the belt is a size to large or the automatic tensioner is weak and not tensioning the belt correctly, as it slips it heats up and grips better, I would look at these first.
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Tuesday, September 20th, 2011 AT 10:30 PM
Tiny
BAABBOTT
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I did have the place look at it and the belt is really tight. The old belt did not squeal so I would think that the new belt creates much more tension that the tensioner may not be able to hold. What that be a correct assessment? Thanks.
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Tuesday, September 20th, 2011 AT 11:25 PM
Tiny
MHPAUTOS
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  • 31,937 POSTS
Clean all the pulleys especially if some form of belt grip used, this can cause slipping, basically one pulley will not be gripping, but normally it will be a worn belt or faulty tensioner, but as you have said these are ok. So look at the pulleys for contamination.
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Wednesday, September 21st, 2011 AT 2:39 AM

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