Q: When start Mazda Protege, there is a squeak in the engine area
Occasionally there is a squeak (around 40 seconds) coming from the engine area when I start the car. What could be causing this?
Recommended Services
| Loud squealing or squeaking is coming from timing belt Inspection | $94.99 - $114.99 | Get a Quote |
The noise is coming from the serpentine belt. The belt is most likely loose or glazed over from needing to be replaced. Check the belts for tightness by twisting it between your finger and thumb and it will be hard to turn sideways if it is tight enough.
Also, look at the belt for shinning surfaces or missing grooves. If any problems are noted, then the belt should be replaced and all pulleys checked for any problems and replaced at the same time.
A good place to start would be to have a mechanic diagnose the engine squeak and recommend the best path to repair.
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
What others are asking
What is the onboard refueling vapor recovery system?
Fuel vapors are pollutants – they create hydrocarbons in the atmosphere and add to the smog choking many US cities. Your Accord has quite a few different emissions control systems, including an onboard refueling vapor recovery system. When you fill...
Car makes noise while idling
A vehicle may make noise when idling for a variety of reasons. A problem with a belt will usually be revealed by a squeaking or screeching type of noise. Closer inspection of the noise (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/loud-squealing-or-squeaking-is-coming-from-timing-belt-inspection) by a knowledgable technician, such...
After driving from traffic light, engine starts smoking
Hello. Thanks for writing in about your 1999 Saturn SW2. If the only issue with the car is that there is oil getting into the spark plug holes (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/oil-is-leaking-into-spark-plug-well-inspection), then most of the time this is a leaking valve cover...
No start after crankshaft position sensor replacement
I would recommend putting the old sensor back in and continuing to drive it. If there are no Check Engine Lights on and it performs as it should, you should not have any problems. If you installed by recommendation of...
Car doesn't go into reverse, but when it drives, it goes slow and shakes very hard early. Smoke started coming out
Hello - the symptoms you provide regarding the lack of Reverse suggest either the Reverse clutches are burned out, or the Reverse piston servo seals are leaking so the Reverse clutches don't actuate. With the "shaking in Drive" you mention...
Green coolant accidentally mixed with red coolant
Hey there. The two coolant chemical compositions are different and may cause corrosive action or gelling of the mixture. If it becomes corrosive, it may damage gaskets and metal components in the engine. If the mixture becomes gelled, then it...
Hearng a clunking noise when I turn the steering wheel either when I turn tight slowly (ie into a bay) or stationary. Peugeot 306
Hello - from your description of symptoms, I believe you have worn steering or suspension links (https://www.yourmechanic.com/question/suspension-is-loose-by-christan-r) in your front suspension. The need to "correct" when turning indicates that something in the steering components is shifting, which should only occur...
Crank no start
There are several possible reasons for a vehicle to crank and not start. A bad fuel pump, clogged fuel filter, faulty injectors, bad ecu, failed ignition coil, or a malfunctioning sensor. It will first be necessary to figure out if...
Car doesn't go straight yet, no mechanical failure can be found
The vehicle is not properly aligned. Prior to performing an alignment be sure the suspension fully checks out and is not worn. Also, if you have any suspicion of frame damage that should be evaluated at the time of the...
Related articles
A Buyer’s Guide to the 2012 Mazda 6
The The Mazda 6 is a luxurious alternative to the everyday family sedan. It has decent fuel economy with an upscale look on both the inside and the outside. The vehicle also handles well on the highway and is comfortable...
How Long Does an Exhaust Manifold Last?
You've You've probably heard of the exhaust manifold before, but that doesn't necessarily mean you're clear on what it does. In fact this system is very important in the operation of your vehicle. It connects the cylinder head to your...
Mazda Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) Car Program
If If you have been shopping for a used Mazda vehicle, you may want to check out cars under their certified pre-owned program. Many manufacturers have a certified pre-owned (CPO) program, and each one is set up differently. Read on...
Browse other content
Maintenance
Estimates