What Causes Car Belt Noise in Winter?

[DeAustin]

Winter car belt noise causes include belt aging, engine oil leakage, automatic tensioner damage, and belt looseness. The reasons for car belt noise in winter are as follows: Belt aging: It is recommended to replace the belt with a new one. Engine oil leakage: Oil leakage from the engine or power steering pump causes the belt to slip. It is advised to first locate the leakage point, address the oil leakage issue, and then replace the belt with a new one. Automatic tensioner damage: Damage to the automatic tensioner causes the belt to loosen. It is recommended to replace the tensioner with a new one. Belt looseness: Looseness of the belt causes squeaking. It is suggested to readjust the belt tension and secure it properly. When belt noise occurs in the vehicle, it should be promptly inspected and repaired at a repair shop to avoid affecting future vehicle use. When replacing belts on the engine, it is advisable to use higher-quality belts that last longer and require fewer replacements.

[ChristopherDella]

Oh, the squealing car belt in winter is really annoying. I've experienced it several times myself, mainly caused by the belt deforming and hardening in cold weather. Plastic or rubber materials shrink and harden at low temperatures, leading to poor elasticity and squeaking, especially with older belts. Insufficient belt tension is another common reason. In cold weather, metal components also contract slightly, causing the belt to loosen and slip, resulting in noise. Additionally, some lubricants solidify in low temperatures, increasing friction between the belt and pulleys due to insufficient lubrication, which also causes noise. If the pulleys or tensioners have minor wear, winter conditions can exacerbate the issue faster. Ignoring persistent squeaking may lead to belt breakage and a stranded vehicle, making towing even more troublesome. It's recommended to warm up the car for a short while before driving in the morning to allow components to reach a better temperature or to regularly check the belt condition at a repair shop and replace it if necessary.

[IsabelFitz]

I encountered this issue last winter. The squeaking noise while driving was particularly annoying, and the key problem was the material of the belt. In cold weather, rubber or plastic becomes brittle, almost like it's frozen stiff, unlike its softness in summer, which increases the friction noise. A loose belt is also common, possibly due to weakened spring tension or improper installation, and the contraction is more noticeable in winter. I once checked it myself with a tension gauge and found it was indeed a bit loose. Additionally, during rainy or humid conditions, water on the belt surface freezing can increase slipping, making the noise even more piercing. It's best to check the belt every few weeks for cracks or wear, gently pressing it to see if it bounces back. If it's too old, replacing it can save you from major repairs. In winter, pay extra attention to warming up the car at low speed for a while after starting, which can alleviate a lot of the issues.

[DavidMarie]

Belt squealing in winter is mostly due to physical changes caused by low temperatures. As temperatures drop, the belt material hardens and contracts, reducing elasticity and increasing friction with the pulleys, which produces noise. Insufficient belt tension can also cause this issue, as cold contraction alters the position of metal components, leading to uneven tension. Worn pulleys exacerbate slippage and noise. Regular inspection and timely replacement are recommended to prevent problems.