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

2008 HYUNDAI ELANTRA

73,500 MILES

BAABBOTT

MEMBER
2 POSTS
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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.

Sep 20, 2011 at 10:15 PM

MHPAUTOS

✓ASE Certified 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.

Sep 20, 2011 at 10:30 PM

BAABBOTT

MEMBER
2 POSTS

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.

Sep 20, 2011 at 11:25 PM

MHPAUTOS

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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.

Sep 21, 2011 at 2:39 AM

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