Belt screech noise and acceleration issues?

Tiny
PAGE0210
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 HONDA CIVIC
  • 1.7L
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 220,000 MILES
When I start my car (EX model) the belt screeches loudly unless I slam the accelerator. It does this when the transmission is in park, it's quieter in reverse and about the same in drive. Every now and then the belt will screech while driving. I'll have steady acceleration then suddenly if I give it any gas it starts to stall, and I have to wait a second or two and slap the gas pedal and it will stop. Then it will happen again for a while. So stalling, slap the gas to get speed, gas pedal starts to stall the car, let off for a second, slap the gas, repeat. Please help!
Thursday, August 24th, 2023 AT 6:33 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

The noise is likely the result of a loose belt. I need you to try something. When you start the vehicle, does the noise change if you turn the AC on? Also, does it get louder or change if you place a heavy load on the alternator? For example, is it different if you have the headlamps on, wipers, blower motor, and other electrical components?

Here is my theory. I have a feeling the alternator belt is loose. I feel it is allowing the battery voltage to drop. That could be the cause of the drivability issue. So, I need you to check all belts to see if they are tight. I'm specifically interested in the alternator belt. See pic below.

Let me know.

Take care,

joe

See pic below.
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Thursday, August 24th, 2023 AT 9:15 PM
Tiny
PAGE0210
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
Okay, so, I had just tightened the serpentine belt and it took the squeak away which I should have known better, I just changed my water pump and timing belt so I should have double checked the tension. But unfortunately the stalling while giving it gas, waiting a second, revving it up and coming out of it for it to big down again is still there. I'm thinking maybe my mass airflow sensor or possibly fuel filter, or injectors? I'm at a loss and I don't have money to throw at something it's not ya know?
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Friday, August 25th, 2023 AT 3:19 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

I completely understand. It sounds like you've done a lot of work on it. Are you sure there are no engine vacuum leaks? Is the PCV connected?

Take a look at this link and let me know if anything helps:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/stall-at-idle

Let me know.

Joe
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Friday, August 25th, 2023 AT 7:46 PM
Tiny
PAGE0210
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
I believe I figured it out. I'm almost positive my MAP sensor went bad; I unplugged it and now it runs fine. I'm going to replace it tomorrow, thank you for the help, I will definitely be emailing you guys again if I have a head scratcher. Thanks again.
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Saturday, August 26th, 2023 AT 10:30 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

Thanks for the update. I hope that takes care of the issue. If you have a chance, could you let me know if that resolves the issue?

Take care,

Joe
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Sunday, August 27th, 2023 AT 5:52 PM
Tiny
PAGE0210
  • MEMBER
  • 20 POSTS
Yes, I tightened my belt and replaced my MAP sensor, and it is running much better now. No hiccups or power loss and no more idle issues.
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Sunday, August 27th, 2023 AT 6:57 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

Thanks for the update. That's good news. I'm glad you got it taken care of.

Take care of yourself and feel free to come back anytime in the future.

Joe
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Sunday, August 27th, 2023 AT 10:09 PM

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