Posted on 4/28/2025
That high-pitched squeak you hear when starting your car or accelerating may seem harmless at first—but it’s often a warning sign that your engine’s accessory belt needs attention. Ignoring it can lead to more than just an annoying noise. Over time, it could leave you stranded with a failed belt and no functioning alternator, water pump, or power steering. If your vehicle’s belt has started squealing, here’s what could be causing it and why it’s best not to wait to have it checked out. What That Squeaking Sound Means Most squeaks come from the serpentine belt—a long, continuous belt that powers several key engine components. It connects to pulleys on the alternator, air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, and water pump. If the belt isn’t gripping the pulleys properly, you’ll hear a squeal, especially during startup, rapid acceleration, or when turning on the A/C. These noises are usually caused by sli ... read more