1999 Ford Taurus SE Serpentine Noise

1999 FORD TAURUS
Avatar
S0JRTORR
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
The sound is like that of a water pump whose bearing has gone bad. I have changed the water pump, idler pulley and the alternator. I used WD-40 to pin point the noise as it stops temporarilly when I spray the water pump pulley. I changed the water pump and it started again within a day. I am in the process of ordering a new belt tensioner, as it is spring loaded and I think it may be overloading the bearings. The sound is just anoying and beyond this next change I do not understand how I could fix this problem without dropping this car in an ARMY field artillery practice range!
Jan 3, 2006 at 9:53 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
GODBEAR839
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 77 POSTS
It has to be one of the pulleys on the engine I had an Taurus with the same issue and after i replaced all the tensioning pulleys it went away.
Jan 4, 2006 at 1:45 AM
Avatar
BONNIESBOYTOY
  • MEMBER
  • 11 POSTS
Sure sounds like a pulley from the git go. Try a belt lube next time though, WD-40 can play havoc with the belts...Tom..
Jan 7, 2006 at 7:07 AM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Suggested Repair

Replace the serpentine belt tensioner and remaining tensioning pulleys. A similar Taurus noise was resolved by replacing all tensioning pulleys. Do not use WD-40 on the belt; use a proper belt lubricant if needed.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 1999 Ford Taurus SE reports a serpentine-area noise like a failed water-pump bearing. The water pump, idler pulley, and alternator were already replaced. Spraying WD-40 on the water-pump pulley quieted the noise only briefly, and it returned after the water-pump replacement. The owner is considering a new spring-loaded belt tensioner. Expert replies indicate a pulley is the cause and that replacing all tensioning pulleys fixed the same issue on another Taurus. They also advise against WD-40 because it can damage belts and suggest belt lubricant instead.

Related Repair Questions

Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle