What sound does a faulty tensioner make?
2 Answers
The sound of a damaged tensioner is a buzzing or squeaking noise. The following are symptoms of a faulty tensioner: 1. If the tensioner pulley fails, the engine's timing may skip, causing ignition and valve timing to become disordered. The engine may shake and have difficulty starting, and in severe cases, it may not start at all. If the car does start, it could deform the valves. 2. It is recommended to replace the tensioner pulley immediately. The tensioner pulley mainly consists of a fixed housing, tension arm, pulley body, torsion spring, rolling bearing, and spring bushing. 3. It can automatically adjust the tension according to the tightness of the belt, ensuring the stability, safety, and reliability of the transmission system. 4. The function of the tensioner pulley is to adjust the tightness of the timing belt, but its lifespan is not very long. Many cars experience the tensioner failing before the belt does. Generally, the tensioner pulley is replaced together with the timing belt.
Over my decade-plus experience in auto repair, I've encountered many failed tensioners. The most distinctive sound is a metallic 'clattering' noise from the engine bay, especially noticeable during cold starts – like a tiny hammer tapping on sheet metal. If you hear a 'humming' resonance while driving, chances are the tensioner bearing has failed. Just last week, an old Accord had this issue – upon disassembly, we found its spring had snapped. Never delay fixing this: at best, a jumping belt causes stalling; at worst, valve damage occurs, and your wallet will suffer the repair bills.
