Your vehicle’s serpentine belt transfers power from the engine crankshaft to various engine components, such as the alternator and power steering pump. If your belt doesn’t maintain adhesion on the pulleys, then it begins to slip and squeal. More often than not, the squealing is due to moisture forming on the ribbed side of the belt.
How to Stop the Squealing
The first step to take is to spray WD-40 on the ribbed side of your belt near a pulley. You can usually tell when the squealing is occurring by just listening. Spray just enough WD-40 to lightly cover the area where the squealing occurs. Use short, sharp blasts. Oversaturating the belt will result in slipping, which will cause damage to the belt.
The WD-40 should remove the moisture from the belt ribs. Allow the engine to run for a few minutes, then spray belt dressing on the belt in the same manner as you did with the WD-40. This will treat the belt and remove further contaminants.
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If the Belt Does Not Stop Squealing
If the WD-40 fails to stop the squealing, then your belt is glazed, which happens after a prolonged period of slipping across the surface of one or more pulleys. You will be able to see a reflective sheen on the ribbed side. Once glazed, the belt will continue to squeal, as it cannot maintain a grip on the pulleys. You will need to get your belt replaced.
If you plan on removing the belt yourself, be sure to know the routing before you proceed. Many vehicles have a routing diagram in the engine bay, typically near the radiator or the underside of the hood. Before you start, ensure that every pulley is turning. Usually, a glazed belt is a result of a seized pulley, which is a symptom of a much larger problem.
In addition to replacing your belt yourself, you are more than welcome to visit Barbour Hendrick Honda’s service center. Our factory-trained service technicians are adept at working on all makes and models. Our services include brake repairs, battery checks, and replacement, tire rotations and replacement, and more. Be sure to schedule a service appointment before you come in to lock in the best date and time that works for you.
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