Belt screech noise and acceleration issues?

2001 HONDA CIVIC
220,000 MILES • 1.7L • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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PAGE0210
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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!
Aug 24, 2023 at 11:33 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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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.
Aug 24, 2023 at 2:15 PM
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PAGE0210
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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?
Aug 25, 2023 at 8:19 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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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
Aug 25, 2023 at 12:46 PM
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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.
Aug 26, 2023 at 3:30 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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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
Aug 27, 2023 at 10:52 AM
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PAGE0210
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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.
Aug 27, 2023 at 11:57 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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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
Aug 27, 2023 at 3:09 PM
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