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2017 Malibu LT - Squealing Noise from Engine Bay, Serpentine Belt?

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Chris P. · rep 0 · May 25, 1:42 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LT

I own a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LT with the 1.5L turbo engine, and for the past few weeks, I've been hearing a distinct squealing noise coming from the engine bay. It's most noticeable when I first start the car in the morning, especially when it's cold, and sometimes when I turn the steering wheel at low speeds.

It sounds like a belt, specifically the serpentine belt. I'm at about 85,000 miles, and I don't think the belt has ever been replaced. I've taken a quick look, and it doesn't look obviously cracked or frayed, but it's hard to tell without taking things apart.

Is this a common issue for this model year? What's the best way to diagnose if it's the serpentine belt, the tensioner, or one of the pulleys? I'd like to try and fix this myself if it's a straightforward replacement.

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 1:42 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer: A squealing noise from the engine bay, particularly on cold starts or when turning the steering wheel, is a classic symptom of a worn serpentine belt or a failing accessory drive component. At 85,000 miles, it's definitely time to inspect or replace the serpentine belt on your 2017 Chevrolet Malibu LT.

Here's how to diagnose and address the issue:

  1. Visual Inspection of the Belt:

    • With the engine off and cool, carefully inspect the entire length of the serpentine belt. Look for:
      • Cracks: Small, hairline cracks are normal, but deep or numerous cracks indicate wear.
      • Fraying: Edges of the belt coming apart.
      • Glazing: A shiny, smooth appearance on the ribbed side, which reduces friction.
      • Missing Ribs: Sections where the rubber has completely separated.
    • Also, check for any oil or fluid contamination on the belt, which can cause slippage.

  2. Check Pulleys and Tensioner:

    • Belt Tensioner: The automatic belt tensioner keeps proper tension on the belt. With the engine off, check for excessive play or wobble in the tensioner pulley. A failing tensioner can cause the belt to slip.
    • Idler Pulleys: These are smooth pulleys that guide the belt. Spin each idler pulley by hand (engine off) to check for rough bearings, grinding noises, or excessive wobble.
    • Accessory Pulleys: Check the pulleys for the alternator, AC compressor, power steering pump (if hydraulic), and water pump. Listen for bearing noises when spinning them by hand.

  3. Confirm the Belt as the Cause:

    • A temporary trick to confirm if it's the belt (and not an accessory) is to briefly spray a small amount of belt dressing or water onto the ribbed side of the belt while the engine is squealing. If the noise temporarily stops or changes, the belt is the culprit. (Use caution near moving parts).

Causes of Squealing:

  • Worn, stretched, or glazed serpentine belt.
  • Failing belt tensioner (common failure point).
  • Worn bearings in an idler pulley or an accessory component (alternator, AC compressor, etc.).

When to See a Shop:

  • If you've replaced the belt and tensioner, but the squeal persists.
  • If you identify a failing accessory component (e.g., alternator bearing noise) that requires specialized tools or expertise to replace.
  • If you're uncomfortable working around the engine or with the belt routing diagram.
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