Car makes screeching noise when turned on with AC on

Asked by warriorhead Aug 30, 2013 at 10:40 AM about the 1998 Dodge Intrepid ES FWD

Question type: Maintenance & Repair

Whenever I start my car with AC on, it makes screeching noise while accelerating. This noise last for about 5 seconds and only comes when I am accelerating. However, after driving 2/3 miles, it won't make the same noise even if I am accelerating.

Also, whenever I start with AC off, I don't have any noises at all. I changed my serpentine belt about a year ago.

I was wondering if anyone can give me any insights as to what the problem might be. Thanks

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dandyoun answered 11 years ago

Possibly ac clutch going bad. But more than likely its either a belt tension issue, bad/damaged belt or idler pully issue. Use a small piece of PVC pipe or hard vacuum cleaner hose to locate where sound is coming from. Raise hood and crank up car. Carefully position pipe in and around belts and pullies while holding other end to your ear. The sound will be magnified thru the pipe allowing you to locate the problem. When you locate the problem replace effected parts. Use extreme caution not to get it hung in belts or pullies while doing this procedure.

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