What Causes the Engine to Squeak?
2 Answers
Car engine squeaking can be caused by the following reasons: 1. Engine misfire: When the engine misfires, the car may exhibit symptoms such as increased engine noise, unstable idle speed, and abnormal body shaking. In this case, it is necessary to check the condition of the cylinders and the operation of the spark plugs, and replace the spark plugs if necessary. 2. Improper use of engine oil: If the engine oil used is too viscous, internal components may not receive effective lubrication, leading to abnormal noises due to friction between parts. It is important to check the engine oil and follow the vehicle manual to replace it with the correct type during routine maintenance. 3. Timing belt noise: If the timing belt tension is incorrect, it can also cause abnormal noises. Adjusting the belt tension is required in this situation. 4. Short warm-up time: When the car is just started, the engine oil has poor fluidity, and some components may not receive effective lubrication. After the car has warmed up for a while and the engine temperature reaches normal levels, the noise should subside.
I've been in this business for decades, and squeaky engines are quite common. It's often an issue with the belts, like the one driving the fan or the compressor being loose or worn out. Rubber aging can make the friction noise especially noticeable. This sound is more frequent during cold starts, and sometimes debris on the pulley can also cause squeaking. Another reason is bearing wear, such as in the alternator or water pump bearings, producing high-frequency noise—you'll need a stethoscope to pinpoint the problem. Internal components like piston rods lacking lubrication can also make noise, but that's much rarer. I've seen many car owners ignore this sound, only for the belt to snap and cause engine overheating, leading to costly repairs. I recommend you get to a repair shop ASAP to check belt tension and lubrication—don't let it escalate. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues, especially for older cars, which need extra attention.