Squealing almost every time I start my car (especially when it's cold)

MEREDITH

MEMBER
1999 CHRYSLER SEBRING
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
111,700 MILES

My car is a 1999 Chrysler Sebring Coupe 2.5 L V6. Almost every time I start my car (especially when it's cold), it makes the horrible squealing noise. It gets even worse whenever I press on the accelerator. I noticed the noise will decrease or stop altogether if I don't run any heat or defrost. Eventually it will stop after the car has had a chance to run a little bit.

This morning I started my car and let it warm up. It didn't make the noise, but when I reversed then put it in drive, my car just died. I was able to restart it, but the squealing sound had returned and became worse with acceleration.

Someone told me it might be a belt. Could it be the timing belt? Any help would be great.

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,716 POSTS

Hi,

What you described sounds like a loose belt. The alt is under a heavy load when it is first started, so that is when you will hear it. Plus, if you turn the blower motor on, that adds more of a load.

I attached two pics below for your review. The first shows there are three belts. The second shows the alternator and other components.

Here is what you need to do. Loosen the adjustment bolt and the pivot bolt just enough that you are able to move the alternator. Using a pry bar, gently place pressure to the left of the alternator so the belt becomes tight. Tighten it enough so you can move the belt approximately 3/4" up and down and tighten the adjustment bolt while you hold pressure on it. Last, tighten the pivot bolt.

Let me know if this helps.

Take care,

joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to make bigger)