How to Deal with Abnormal Noise from Car Engine Belt in Winter?
3 Answers
Methods to solve abnormal noise from the engine belt: 1. Check whether the bearings of the accessories driven by the belt are damaged, stuck, loose, or if the power of the accessories has increased. 2. Replace the belt, or lightly sand the contact surface between the belt pulley and the belt with No. 100 sandpaper (light sanding is sufficient). 3. As a temporary solution, you can drip 1~2 drops of engine oil on the contact surface between the belt and the pulley (this will not affect the belt slipping). 4. After removing the generator belt, rotate the generator pulley to check if the generator rotates smoothly. If the generator is normal, you can check whether the battery is holding a charge, as a damaged battery can also increase the load on the generator.
I've encountered this issue of car engine belt squealing in winter before. In cold weather, rubber hardens, making the belt prone to slipping or aging, which can cause squeaking sounds. You can perform a preliminary check yourself: after turning off the engine, pull on the belt to see if it's too loose; if it is, tighten the adjustment screw. If there's dust on the belt pulley, wiping it clean with a cloth can reduce slipping. Applying some belt dressing spray on the belt can temporarily quiet the noise. However, if the belt is cracked or severely worn, don't push your luck—head straight to the repair shop for a replacement. Remember, don't wait until it snaps to take action; breaking down on the roadside in winter is a real hassle. Make it a habit to glance at the belt's condition during regular maintenance, and check the tension when changing the oil—prevention is always cheaper and less stressful than repairs.
My car also had belt squealing in winter, which is no small matter. The cold makes belts brittle, and if there's noise, it could indicate insufficient belt tension or a faulty tensioner. I recommend immediately finding a safe place to pull over and checking if the belt is loose or cracked. Minor issues can be temporarily fixed with belt wax, but never ignore it and continue driving—a snapped belt can damage other components. It's best to visit a professional repair shop for a technician to diagnose whether the belt needs replacement or system adjustment. Regular maintenance is key; getting a comprehensive check-up at the garage before winter can prevent such sudden issues. Safety always comes first.
