Car Makes Squeaking Noise

Engine Squeaking

Easy step by step guide on how to repair automotive engine squeaking noises, this information pertains to most vehicles.

Helpful Information

Squeaking sounds are created when metal is contacting metal combined with a linear motion. Detection of a squeaking noise can be difficult, moving around the engine compartment at various levels can help find the origin of the noise.

Difficulty Scale: 4 of 10

Begin with the vehicle on level ground engine off (cold) with the emergency brake set.

Step 1 - A serpentine belt is designed to supply power to the accessories of the engine such as coolant pump, alternator and power steering. When this item wears it can make a squeaking or squealing noise.

New Serpentine Belt

Step 2 - Most pulleys, including the serpentine belt tensioner are supported by a sealed roller bearing, if this bearing fails it can cause a squeaking squealing noise.

Serpentine Belt Tensioner

Step 3 - A idler pulley is used to help route the belt in a particular manner, this pulley bearing failure is common.

Idler Pulley

Step 4 - Oil is used to lubricate the internal workings of the engine to avoid damage, when the level of oil available drops to insufficient levels it can cause a squeaking noise. Learn more

Engine Oil Level