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Squealing Noise from Engine - 2020 Regal Sportback Serpentine Belt?

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Jason D. · rep 0 · May 22, 3:53 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2020 Buick Regal Sportback Essence

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2020 Buick Regal Sportback Essence with about 45,000 miles on it. For the past few weeks, I've been hearing a distinct squealing noise coming from the engine bay, especially when I first start the car in the morning or when it's damp outside. It usually goes away after a few minutes of driving, but sometimes it'll come back briefly when I accelerate.

It sounds a lot like a worn serpentine belt. Is this a common issue for these cars at this mileage? I'm wondering if it's something I can inspect and potentially replace myself. I've done serpentine belts on older cars before, but I'm not sure how complex it is on a newer Buick.

Any tips on how to confirm it's the belt and what tools I might need would be super helpful!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 3:53 AM

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A squealing noise from the engine bay, especially during cold starts or in damp conditions, is a classic symptom of a worn or loose serpentine belt. At 45,000 miles, it's definitely within the realm of possibility for a belt to start showing signs of wear, though many last longer.

Confirming the Issue (DIY Inspection):

  1. Visual Inspection: With the engine off and cool, carefully inspect the serpentine belt. Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny, smooth appearance), or missing ribs. Also, check for any signs of oil or coolant contamination on the belt, which can cause slippage.
  2. Pulley Inspection: While you're there, check the pulleys (alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, idler pulleys, tensioner pulley) for any wobbling, excessive play, or unusual noises when spun by hand (engine off!). A failing pulley bearing can also cause squealing.
  3. Water Spray Test (Caution!): Briefly spray a small amount of water (not oil!) onto the ribbed side of the belt while the engine is running and squealing. If the noise temporarily stops or changes, it strongly indicates the belt is the culprit. If the noise persists, it might be a pulley bearing.

DIY Serpentine Belt Replacement:

  • Tools: You'll typically need a serpentine belt tool (a long wrench with various sockets) or a breaker bar and socket to release tension on the tensioner pulley. A diagram of the belt routing is essential (often found under the hood or in your owner's manual).
  • Procedure:
    1. Locate the automatic belt tensioner.
    2. Using the appropriate tool, rotate the tensioner to release tension on the belt.
    3. Carefully remove the old belt, noting its exact routing.
    4. Install the new belt, ensuring it's correctly routed around all pulleys.
    5. Release the tensioner slowly to apply tension to the new belt.
    6. Double-check that the belt is seated properly in all pulley grooves.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you're uncomfortable with the replacement process, as incorrect installation can lead to belt failure or damage.
  • If the noise persists after replacing the belt, indicating a failing pulley bearing or another underlying issue.
  • If you notice any other symptoms like dimming lights (alternator issue) or loss of power steering, which could indicate a more serious component failure related to the belt drive system. There aren't specific OBD codes for a squealing belt, but a failing alternator could trigger P0562 (System Voltage Low).
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