1999 GMC Suburban loud noise

MEKIA71975

MEMBER
1999 GMC SUBURBAN
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
140 MILES

I recently bought a 1999 GMC Suburban. After the car has been driving for awhile there is a loud whirrling/ whistling sound that comes from the front of the car. It getting so bad that you can hear the truck coming, its very embarassing. My husband who knows absolutely nothing about cars says that it's the fan belt. Another gentlesaid that it is the timing belt. Do you have any idea what it could be and is it very expesnsive to fix?

Tuesday, February 24th, 2009 AT 7:29 AM

3 Replies

2CARPRO JACK

MECHANIC
11,533 POSTS

Since those dont have timing belts, were gonna go with the drive belt. Try replacing the belt first if it looks cracked or shiny. Check to be sure the tensioner is keeping it tight. While the belt is off, spin all accessories to see if any of them make noise, could be a bearing getting hot and making noise

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Tuesday, February 24th, 2009 AT 7:55 AM

MEKIA71975

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2 POSTS

IF THE NOISE THAT THE TRUCK MAKE IS DUE TO THE DRIVE BELT OR THE BEARING, IS THIS COMPLICATED TO FIX AND IS IT VERY EXPENSIVE? IS IT DANGEROUS TO DRIVE IN THIS CONDITION?

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Thursday, March 19th, 2009 AT 7:21 PM

2CARPRO JACK

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11,533 POSTS

If the belt breaks it could over heat the engine, or you could lose power steering while driving. You could pick up a belt and replace it yourself with basic tools.I believe that tensioner just uses a 3/8 ratched drive to work it. Be sure to draw a picture of the belt routing if yours is gone off the vehicle

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Thursday, March 19th, 2009 AT 10:36 PM