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

177,415

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.
365

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

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