Why does a car squeal when it is started?

If you suspect a slipping belt a simple test is to hold a bar of handsoap against the belt while the vehicle is running, being careful not to catch your hand in the belt nor the fan. The squeal will disappear in seconds.

Probably a belt slipping. If you pull the belt off and spin each pully, you may find a bearing going bad. Or it may just be a glazed belt. Try taking some valve grinding compound and applying it at several places on the belt-both sides. (while the engine is off). This usually takes care of the noise.

Answer

Loose fan belt best way to test is have the motor running and pour water over the belt if squeal goes away its the belt

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answer for those that dont have valve grinding compound, u can buy a stick of waht looks like a crayon. it is called belt dressing with engine running , hold on belt belt will pick up dressing and squeel will go away

First answer by anonymous. Last edit by Hevrgo2409. Contributor trust: 13 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 122 [recommend question]

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