Why Does the Car Engine Belt Stop Squeaking When Water is Poured on It?
2 Answers
The reason why the car engine belt stops squeaking when water is poured on it is that the noise originates from the friction between the belt and the pulley. The temporary cessation of noise after pouring water is a short-term phenomenon. Below is a detailed introduction about car engines: 1. Overview: The car engine is the device that provides power to the car, determining its power, fuel efficiency, stability, and environmental friendliness. Depending on the power source, car engines can be categorized into diesel engines, gasoline engines, electric vehicle motors, and hybrids, among others. 2. Others: Common gasoline and diesel engines are both types of reciprocating piston internal combustion engines, capable of converting the chemical energy of fuel into the mechanical energy of piston movement and outputting power externally. Gasoline engines have high rotational speeds, are lightweight, produce less noise, are easier to start, and have lower manufacturing costs. Diesel engines have a higher compression ratio, greater thermal efficiency, and better fuel economy and emission performance compared to gasoline engines.
Having driven for decades, I've found that when the engine belt starts squeaking, pouring some water on it makes the noise stop. Simply put, the noise is caused by belt slippage. When a belt becomes loose, worn, or covered in dust during rotation, it can rub against the pulley and produce a screeching sound. Pouring water temporarily lubricates the surface, reducing friction and thus eliminating the noise. However, this is only a temporary fix—belt slippage indicates an underlying issue that needs addressing. I remember once doing this on the highway; it quieted down briefly, but the belt wore out faster and soon snapped, costing me a fortune in towing and repairs. The key is to check whether the belt tension is correct, if the tensioner pulley is stuck, and whether the belt itself has hardened or developed cracks. Lubricating an aged belt might accelerate its deterioration, and getting other components wet could cause additional problems. My advice is to have it inspected, adjusted, or replaced by a professional as soon as you hear the noise—don’t cut corners. Developing a habit of regular vehicle checks can help avoid such hassles, ensuring safety and saving both time and money.
