Q: Squealing noise coming from engine

asked by on February 16, 2016

A squealing noise started coming from the engine a few days ago. I think the timing belt might need replacing.

Car is making a noise Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi there, the Corolla has a timing chain that won’t make a squealing sound because there are splines on the inside of the belt/chain to prevent slipping. There are tensioners and pulleys that can wear out over time causing unwanted noise from under the hood which could be happening. Typically, however, the serpentine belts are the cause of a squealing sound from underneath the hood. These belts power components like the water pump, alternator, and A/C compressor (if the car is equipped with A/C). Over time, they can lose their grip which will cause them to slip on the pulleys creating a squealing sound. If the belts haven’t been changed recently it’s most likely time for a replacement. Have a certified technician inspect the belts for you to find the cause of the sound.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Soft brakes make me think they won’t work
Any unusual braking occurrences should be viewed as potentially serious. However, the symptom you describe is more indicative of a common issue Toyota had with the Tundra, causing them to issue a on it. It has to do with replacing...
What does the electronic brake force distribution (EBD) Warning Light mean?
The electronic brake force distribution (EBD) Warning Light is located on the instrument panel., and is a combination of the anti-lock brake system (ABS) and standard brake system Warning Lights. When the EBD illuminates, there is an issue with your...
Transmission problems
The problems you are having may be due to a sticking throttle control, or possibly a transmission shifter control problem. These vehicles have an electronic throttle and if you try to push on the brakes and the throttle at the...
Brake issue..
With the vehicle off, pump the brake pedal until all of the assist has been diminished. This will empty the brake booster. Upon pumping, the pedal should become more and more stiff until it feels like you are almost stepping...
Check engine light came on while driving
The Check Engine Light is an indicator that something is affecting your emissions in a negative way. This can be as simple as a loose gas cap (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/gas-cap-replacement), to a misfire (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/engine-is-misfiring-inspection) and many things contribute to the overall emissions...
How long for an AC compressor repair?
Hey there. The replacement would take the average technician about 2 hours of labor to perform this task after evacuating the system of refrigerant to make sure it is not released into the atmosphere. If you do not have the...
Car didn't start so I got a jump. When it started hearing squealing sound. 2007 Honda Accord
Hello - your symptoms suggest that the alternator is not functioning properly due to a worn or stretched serpentine (aka accessory) belt (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/symptoms-of-a-bad-or-failing-serpentine-drive-belt). This problem could also be caused by a failed serpentine belt tensioner, or failed bearings in the...
Loud clicks no start
If what you have is a rapid tapping sound when you turn the key, You are not getting enough current to the starter. When the solenoid engages and connects the starter, the battery voltage rapidly drops to the point where...
If I am hooking up an aftermarket oil pressure gauge, do I need to keep the electronic oil pressure sending unit hooked up?
The aftermarket gauge that you are using would likely work either way. I would recommend trying to keep the factory sending unit in place if possible to prevent any potential issues that may occur. If the new gauge does not...

Related articles

What Is the Purpose of Engine Gaskets?
Engine gaskets work as seals to maintain pressure, hold fluids, and prevent debris from entering the engine. Gaskets are vital for engine performance.
2012 Toyota Highlander vs. 2012 Dodge Durango: Which One Should I Buy?
Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are a fun class of vehicle: not only are they great for carpools and moving around friends and family, but you can also get them off-road and just get dirty and have fun with them. These...
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Crankcase Vent Filter
Common signs include oil leaks, excessively high idle, and a decrease in engine performance, power, and acceleration.