why does my car squeal when i first start it?

Asked by spebuck Dec 19, 2012 at 01:53 PM about the 2004 Subaru Forester

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

The noise rarely lasts more than 1 minute, but it's never happened before. i should mention that it doesn't happen when it's warmed up & the weather has been cold lately.

2 Answers

176,035

When you start the engine, energy is drained from the battery. When the engine fires, the alternator sends current to the battery to recharge it. That put a heavy load on the cold alternator belt. The belt squeals until it warms up and the load decreases. Now is a good time to change the belt before winter hits.

6 people found this helpful.
355

Loose or worn fan belt as person said above, regular maintainence avoids thing like this happening

Your Answer:

CarGurus Experts

  • #1
    Chris W
    Reputation
    11,400
  • #2
    TheSubaruGuruBoston
    Reputation
    9,780
  • #3
    Nick Eidemiller
    Reputation
    6,220
View All

Find great deals from top-rated dealers

Search

Related Models For Sale

Used Subaru Outback
38 Great Deals out of 1,155 listings starting at $2,995
Used Toyota RAV4
124 Great Deals out of 3,046 listings starting at $4,999
Used Honda CR-V
183 Great Deals out of 4,989 listings starting at $440
Used Subaru Impreza
30 Great Deals out of 668 listings starting at $4,299
Used Toyota 4Runner
26 Great Deals out of 542 listings starting at $9,999
Used Toyota Highlander
44 Great Deals out of 816 listings starting at $7,498
Used Subaru Legacy
11 Great Deals out of 219 listings starting at $3,200
Used Toyota Tacoma
44 Great Deals out of 742 listings starting at $9,975
Used Toyota Camry
46 Great Deals out of 1,149 listings starting at $2,500
Used Ford Escape
128 Great Deals out of 4,270 listings starting at $3,999

Content submitted by Users is not endorsed by CarGurus, does not express the opinions of CarGurus, and should not be considered reviewed, screened, or approved by CarGurus. Please refer to CarGurus Terms of Use. Content will be removed if CarGurus becomes aware that it violates our policies.