Loud front noise

Hi,

A squealing noise is usually a belt. I realize the A/C belt has been replaced already, but there are two belts on the vehicle that can cause an issue. Also, the A/C belt isn't an automatic tightening belt, so it may have stretched and come loose.

If you take a look at the attached picture, you will see both belts. The one I circled in red is the A/C belt. I need you to check that both are tight. Do this and let me know what you find.

Take care,
Joe

Was only one belt replaced? There are two. Also, is it possible for you to record what you hear with your phone and upload it for me to hear?

No. There are a total of two accessory drive belts. One for the AS and the other the alt. I didn't realize both were replaced. Also, the timing belt won't squeal. Now, although both accessory drive belts have been replaced, you could have a tension issue. In other words, the belt isn't tight enough.

If possible, record it so I can hear it. I should be able to tell if it is a belt noise.

Joe

Is there every any noise when the vehicle is at an idle? I'm not sure why it won't upload for you. Can you explain what is happening?

Joe

I feel confident it is related to one of the accessory drive belts. When you rev the engine, one is most likely slipping. Have you checked to see if they seem loose?

With the engine off, simply see if one of the belts seems loose. I suspect there is an issue with tension.

Let me know.
Joe

The belts on this vehicle are tightened manually. Here are the directions. The attached pic correlates with the directions.

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2008 Kia Rio L4-1.6L
Adjustments
Vehicle Engine, Cooling and Exhaust Engine Drive Belts, Mounts, Brackets and Accessories Drive Belt Adjustments
ADJUSTMENTS
ADJUSTMENT

1. Loosen the tension mounting bolt (B).
2. Turn the adjusting bolt (C) to obtain the proper belt tension, and then retighten the mounting bolt (B).
3. Recheck the deflection of the A/C compressor belt.

Pic 1

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Here are the directions for adjusting the alternator belt.
2008 Kia Rio L4-1.6L
Alternator
Vehicle Engine, Cooling and Exhaust Engine Drive Belts, Mounts, Brackets and Accessories Drive Belt Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics Alternator
ALTERNATOR
GENERATOR BELT INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENT

NOTE:
When using a new belt, first adjust the deflection or tension to the values for the new belt, then readjust the deflection or tension to the value for the used belt after running engine for five minutes.

Deflection method:
Apply a force of 98N (10kg, 22lb), and measure the deflection between the generator and the water pump pulley.

Deflection
Used belt: 4.2 - 4.7 mm (0.1654 - 0.1850 in)
New belt: 3.3 - 3.7 mm (0.1299 - 0.1457 in)

NOTE:
If the belt is worn or damaged, replace it.

Pic 2

Belt tension gauge method:
Attach the belt tension gauge to the belt and measure the tension. Follow the gauge manufacturer's instructions.

Tension
Used belt: 392.3 - 490.3N (40 - 50kg, 88.2 - 110.2lb)
New belt: 637.4 - 735.5N (65 - 75kg, 143.3 - 165.3lb)

NOTE:
If the belt is worn or damaged, replace it.

Pic 3

If adjustment is necessary:
1. Loosen adjusting bolt (A) and the lock bolt (B).
2. Move the generator to obtain the proper belt tension, then retighten the nuts.

Pic 4

3. Recheck the deflection or tension of the belt.

NOTE:
For the power steering pump belt and A/C compressor belt adjustments, refer to power steering pump and air compressor.

_______________________

Here are the directions for the power steering.

2008 Kia Rio L4-1.6L
Steering
Vehicle Engine, Cooling and Exhaust Engine Drive Belts, Mounts, Brackets and Accessories Drive Belt Testing and Inspection Component Tests and General Diagnostics Steering
STEERING
SERVICE ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE

CHECKING POWER STEERING BELT TENSION
1. Press the V belt, applying a pressure of 98N (10kg, 22lb) at the specified point and measure the deflection to confirm that it is within the standard value.

Standard value
V belt deflection : 7 - 10 mm (0.27 - 0.39 in)

pic 5

2. If the belt deflection is beyond the standard value, adjust the belt tension as follows.
(1)Loosen the bolt(A) adjusting the power steering V belt tension.

Pic 6

(2)Put a bar or equivalent, between the bracket and the oil pump and adjust the tension so that the belt deflection is within the standard value.
(3)Tighten the bolt adjusting the power steering V belt tension.
(4)Check the belt deflection and adjust it again if necessary.

CAUTION:
After turning the V belt in the normal rotation direction more than once, recheck the belt deflection.

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Let me know if this helps. Also, since the belts were replaced, it isn't uncommon for them to stretch a bit. They most likely need readjusted.

Let me know if I can help or if you have other questions.

Joe

Hi,

I am hearing a wining noise. Is that what you are referring to? If it is, it sounds like the alternator working. Not really anything out of the ordinary.

Let me know if that is what you referring to. If it is, I honestly don't think there is anything to worry about.

Let me know.
Joe

I have to be honest. It sounds normal to me. If you were to remove the alternator belt, I suspect that noise would stop. I wouldn't allow it to worry you unless it start getting louder.

Listen, if anything starts happening or changing, I will be here. Get back to me and I'll do my best to help. At this point, however, I don't see an issue. I actually wish my truck was that quiet. LOL

Take care and let me know if you need anything.

Joe

Okay, maybe it isn't as noticeable when recorded. Do me a favor. When you drive it, see if anything makes it louder or quieter. For example, turn the head lamps, A/C fan on high, wipers on, and see if it gets louder.

Let me know.

At this point, the only thing we can do to confirm if one of the belt driven accessories is making the noise is to remove the belts and start the engine for a few seconds to see if the noise goes away. Or, if you go to an automotive parts store, you can get an automotive stethoscope and check if the noise is coming from different components such as the alternator, ac compressor, power steering pump and so on.

Let me know which you would like to do. I'll help you through it. Please remember if you are checking things when the engine is running, make sure to keep everything away from the belts and pulleys to prevent injury.

Let me know.
Joe