Q: Screeching when I start the car cold. But the sound goes away.

asked by on November 30, 2016

It is a loud screeching coming from the right side of the car, only when I start the vehicle on cold mornings. The sound does go a way after the motor is warm. there are no extra vibrations to the car, but I do smell a faint smell like something is burning.

My car has 81562 miles.
My car has an automatic transmission.

When you have a squealing noise on start up, that goes away after a few minutes, is normally a belt issue. This is typically a sign that the belt is slipping enough that it makes the noise until everything gets to moving and the belt will quit slipping. Keep in mind that there are other possible causes, but this is the most likely. You may need to also take a look at the pulleys to be sure they are not "glazed", which can also cause a belt to slip, and be sure to check the belt tensioner to be sure that it isn’t beginning to fail. If the tensioner gets to a point that it can’t keep enough pressure on the belt, it will also cause a squeal. If this is something you feel you need a hand to identify and/or repair, consult a certified mechanic, like those available at YourMechanic.com.

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

How do I customize the Remote Start Auto Heat Seat settings?
The Remote Start Auto Heat Seats setting allows you to choose whether or not the heated seats turn on when using the remote start feature on cold days. Adjusting the settings takes only a few steps: 1. Turn on the...
Car window won't close
Hi there. If the window went down and will not come back up, then either the window motor has failed or the switch is bad. Most of the time the problem is in the window motor itself. It is much...
I've changed my water pump, thermostat, thermostat housing, fan clutch, radiator and my ram is still overheating to about 250 degr
You need to have the cooling system checked to see if there is combustion gases getting in the cooling system, causing it to get hotter than it should. Since you have overheating problems you may have a blown head gasket...
When replacing the brake switch, why would the 3rd brake light work and not all 3?
It is possible that both of the brake light bulbs (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/brake-light-bulb-replacement) are out. It is also possible that the other two brake lights are on a separate fuse from the third brake light which could cause the third brake light...
I was driving in the rain and when i went through a dip full of watter, water splashed into my car n got my feet all wet... the wa
Vehicles are far from waterproof in all circumstances. When the vehicle is designed the structure is engineered to keep rain out and most water sprayed from the wheel well areas but if you enter standing water of significant depth, some...
The CHECK FUEL FILL INLET message came on while I was driving down the highway and had not fueled in several days.
Try removing the gas cap and putting it back on. While the gas cap is off, check the seal on the cap and see if there is any cracks or damage to the seal. If the seal is good and...
Radio "device unavailable"
I would recommend to look in your owner's manual for information relating to this matter. In the chapter about the radio unit, you will likely find information that will lead you to being able to reset your region back to...
Drive belt tensioner
Hi There, It sounds like your drive belt tensioner pulley (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/drive-belt-tensioner-replacement) may be wearing out or possibly improperly aligned causing the drive belt to be stressed. When this tensioner pulley is out of alignment or wearing out, this will cause...
knock sensor replacement cost
Hi Elizabeth. Thanks for contacting us today. I've forwarded your inquiry to our sales and service department so they can determine if we're able to replace the knock sensor of your 2002 Toyota Highlander. They should be contacting you via...

Related articles

A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz
The The sleek design, luxurious interior and smooth finish of the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz belies a full size SUV from a much higher price range. When you add expert handling and acceptable performance, you have a vehicle that is well-worth...
2012 Chevrolet Cruze vs. 2012 Hyundai Elantra: Which One Should I Buy?
When you’re looking for a four-door sedan, you’re likely interested in a smaller family car that still offers decent styling and looks, great gas mileage, and a comfortable interior that will keep your family safe as you’re driving. While not...
The Best Used Cars to Buy If You Get Motion Sickness
For For people that suffer from motion sickness, even on the shortest car trip, riding in a vehicle can prove to be unbearable. What’s great is that there are a number of cars on the market that can help to...