What Causes Car Belt Noise in Winter?
2 Answers
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.
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.
