Strange Squealing Noises

ANTHONYWILSON1

MEMBER
2009 TOYOTA COROLLA
1.8L
4 CYL
2WD
155,000 MILES

This has been happening fairly recently. Whenever I start up my car for the first time in a few days, there's some kind of squealing noise whenever I turn the steering wheel, and after I accelerate for a second or so the sounds stop. I don't hear them any more after that.

Any idea what that could be?

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,192 POSTS

Hi,

It sounds like the accessory drive belt needs to be tightened or replaced. If possible, record the sound and upload it so I can hear it. That way I will know if that is where the sound comes from'

Or, with the engine off, open the hood and locate the accessory drive belt at the front of the engine. Inspect it for cracks, fraying, or anything that seems out of the ordinary.

Next, does the belt feel loose? If so, try tightening it a bit to see if the sound goes away.

If you look at the pic below, it shows what needs to be loosened to adjust the belt. In the pic, letters A, B, and D point to the mounting bolts that need to be loosened. Loosen them (don't remove them). Letter C points to the adjuster. When you tighten the bolt (C), it will pull the alternator toward you tightening the belt. Once you feel the belt is tight, then retighten the other bolts.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pic below.

Image (Click to make bigger)