Car squealing when I turn in, take off, accelerate etc.

RAY1103

MEMBER
2003 KIA SPECTRA
2WD
AUTOMATIC
111,167 MILES

Most of the time when I start my car it gives of a loud squealing sound. The car will also do it when I accelerate or first leave from a stop sign or stoplight while have the AC on. Once I turn the AC off the car will stop squealing and move a lot faster. I have also noticed it doing when I turn at times but those times I believe the AC was on. The serpentine belt was replaced last year. Today a mechanic came out and said that the belt was fine and that it was tightened enough. He believes the alternators bearings are going bad which is causing the squealing that having the AC on was causing to much on it, like over working. Should I replace the alternator or is their another issue that could be causing This? I have used belt dressing before and it was only a temporary solution. I also have noticed sometimes when I first start the car and try to drive off immediately the car kind of stalls for a second and then goes.

1 Reply

STEVE W.

MECHANIC
13,452 POSTS

Could be the alternator or more likely the AC compressor. If you turn the AC off, but turn the blower to high, the lights all on high and any defrosters, does it still squeal?
Those would put almost the same current draw on the alternator as the AC clutch.

You can listen to the bearings in the alternator by using a long screwdriver or dowel rod, you hold that tight to your ear and put the other end on the alternator. A good bearing will sound like air rushing by, a bad one sounds like you are driving on a gravel road in a hail storm.
Just be VERY careful of any moving parts.