What is the high-pitched noise coming from my car?

A high-pitched squealing when you're driving could well mean that your accessory belt (or “V-belt”) is telling you that it's close to the end. If your belt breaks or snaps then your car won't run anymore, so get it looked at as soon as possible to avoid a breakdown.

Why does my car have a high pitched noise?

You hear a high-pitched squeal when accelerating: If you notice a loud squeal when accelerating, especially if your car is just warming up, it could be that you have a loose or worn fan belt. Usually if your fan belts are worn, it could mean your timing belt needs replaced as well.

Why is my car making a high pitched whistle?

A high-pitched, shrill whistle can really get annoying, especially if it occurs frequently while you drive. There are generally two possible explanations for the whistle. The first is that your vehicle is running low on transmission fluid. The second is that your car's fuel injectors have gotten too dirty.

What would causes a whistling noise while driving?

Whistling. If you hear a whistling sound while driving, there are a few different places you can check out to find a probable cause. The most common reason for this noise being made is a vacuum leak, due to worn or cracked hoses.

Why does my car make a whistling noise when I press the gas?

The sound you are hearing is air leaking across a damaged gasket or a warped sealing surface. With the throttle closed, or in deceleration mode, the manifold pressure is very low and if there is a leak anywhere in the induction system that should normally be sealed, you will hear the (very common) whistle.

Causes of High Pitched Squeal from a Car When Moving (High-Pitched Squealing Noise)

Why does my engine have a high pitched whine?

Bad Bearing On An Engine Accessory Pulley

All the pulleys in this system have bearings that can go bad after many miles. When these bearings go bad, it's common for them to squeal whenever the engine is running.

Can low oil cause squealing?

Driving with low oil won't cause a squeaking sound. But it will cause other sounds. Insufficient levels of oil will lead to clicking or ticking sounds when driving. However, keep in mind that even with decent oil levels, the ticking sounds can still occur.

Is it safe to drive with a squealing belt?

That's why it's recommended that the serpentine belt is replaced early when the squealing symptoms are first noticed. Although it may be safe to drive with the squealing for a few days or weeks, the belt will eventually need to be replaced, and for safety, the earlier it's repaired, the better.

What does a worn serpentine belt sound like?

Belt Noise

As these belts wear out, they can begin to squeak or squeal. They make noise because there is not enough tension on the belt, or because the pulleys are misaligned or weak. Often, simply changing the belt will make it stop squealing. The noise isn't usually a danger, though it does sound alarming.

Why is my car squealing while idling?

Usually a squealing noise coming from the engine compartment during idle is an indication of a loose or worn out belt or pulley. However, it can also be a transmission issue if it's low on transmission fluid or there is a blockage inside the transmission lines.

Does your alternator make a whining noise?

If you hear any type of whining or grinding sound that's a good indication that your alternator needs to be checked. The alternator could be bad if your car won't start or it's turning over several times before finally starting.

Can a serpentine belt make a whining noise?

To route a serpentine belt, many cars use free-spinning pulleys like the one in the photo. It's called an idler pulley. It spins on a little bearing. When that bearing goes bad, it can produce a whining/whirring or screeching noise.

How do you get rid of an alternator whine?

If engine noise is your culprit, you may hear a whining or clicking sound. Its pitch will usually vary with engine speed. If this is the case, you can install an alternator noise filter on the power line between the battery and the alternator to minimize the problem.

What are the signs your alternator is going out?

How much does it cost to fix a squeaky belt?

A typical serpentine belt start at around $25 and goes up to $75 at most. If you know some car repair basics, you could change the belt yourself, and it may save you paying labor charges somewhere between $75 and $120. All together, you're looking at around $100 to $195 to replace your serpentine belt.

How do I know if I need to replace my serpentine belt?

The easiest way to know that a new serpentine belt is needed is if you hear it squealing while the engine is running. A heavy rainstorm might cause a bit of squealing, but if there are any fluid leaks, it's time to replace it right away.

How do I know if my serpentine belt is squealing?

Check if the squeaking noise is persistent when you turn on your car, and it feels like it's coming from the front of your vehicle (under the hood or from the engine bay). If yes, then the squeal you hear is from your serpentine belt or drive belt.

What does a loose alternator belt sound like?

Squealing Noise when cold

This is mainly due to a loose alternator belt, which will become more slippery and wet when it is cold and create a high pitch noise when it slips on the alternator. If you have a high pitch noise when you start the car for a few seconds, it is definitely time to check the alternator belt.

How much does it cost to replace an alternator belt?

A typical serpentine belt generally starts at around $15 and goes up to $80 at most. Add to that the labor costs that can range from $75 and $120. Altogether, you're looking at around $90 to $200 (plus taxes and fees) to replace your serpentine belt.

Can a loose alternator belt cause squealing?

Under the Hood: When alternator belt is loose, it slips, makes squealing sound.

Can low coolant cause squealing?

Check to Make Sure Coolant Isn't Leaking

If you recently added antifreeze to your radiator and spilled some on your belt, it can quickly cause a squealing sound. The same is true if any part of your cooling system is leaking, as the engine fan can blow small amounts of coolant back onto the belt itself.

What happens if serpentine belt breaks?

If the serpentine belt breaks, the alternator stops generating electrical power. If that happens, your headlights will dim, the radio won't work, and the battery will die. The battery warning light will also turn on because your battery isn't being charged.

Why is my belt squealing?

The belt squeals because there is improper tension in the belt drive system. This is usually caused by a worn automatic tensioner, but other causes can include a contaminated belt (oil, belt dressing, etc.) or a belt that is too long or worn out.