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Squealing Noise from Engine: 2015 Chrysler 200 Serpentine Belt DIY?

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 4:25 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2015 Chrysler 200 Limited 2.4L

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2015 Chrysler 200 Limited with the 2.4L engine, and for the past few weeks, I've been hearing a really annoying squealing noise from the engine bay, especially when I first start it up in the morning or when it's damp outside. It usually goes away after a few minutes, but it's getting louder.

I suspect it's the serpentine belt. I'm fairly handy and have done some basic maintenance before. Is replacing the serpentine belt on this model a DIY-friendly job, or should I just take it to a mechanic? What tools would I need, and are there any common pitfalls to watch out for?

Thanks for any guidance!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 4:25 AM

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Hello Mike,

The squealing noise you're hearing from your 2015 Chrysler 200 Limited 2.4L is a classic symptom of a worn or loose serpentine belt, especially if it's more pronounced when cold or damp. This is a common maintenance item, and for someone who's 'fairly handy,' it can definitely be a DIY job. It's generally less complex than some other engine repairs.

Here's a breakdown of what you'll need and the steps involved:

Tools You'll Likely Need:

  • A new serpentine belt (ensure it's the correct one for your 2.4L engine).
  • A serpentine belt tensioner tool or a long breaker bar/ratchet with the correct size socket (usually 15mm or 18mm) for the tensioner pulley bolt.
  • A diagram of the belt routing (often found under the hood or in your owner's manual).
  • Possibly a flashlight for better visibility.

DIY Serpentine Belt Replacement Steps:

  1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the negative battery terminal for extra safety.
  2. Locate the Belt and Tensioner: Identify the serpentine belt and the automatic tensioner pulley. The tensioner will have a square drive hole or a bolt head where you can apply leverage.
  3. Relieve Tension: Using your tensioner tool or breaker bar/ratchet, apply pressure to the tensioner pulley bolt in the direction that loosens the belt. This will allow you to slip the belt off the pulleys.
  4. Remove Old Belt: Once the tension is relieved, carefully remove the old belt from all pulleys.
  5. Inspect Pulleys: While the belt is off, manually spin each pulley (alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, idler pulleys) to check for any excessive play, grinding noises, or wobbling. A bad pulley can quickly ruin a new belt.
  6. Route New Belt: Refer to your belt routing diagram and carefully route the new serpentine belt around all the pulleys, leaving the tensioner pulley for last (or an easy-to-access pulley).
  7. Apply Tension: Again, use your tool to relieve the tensioner and slip the new belt onto the final pulley. Slowly release the tensioner to apply proper tension to the new belt.
  8. Double-Check: Ensure the belt is properly seated in all the grooves of every pulley. Reconnect the battery.
  9. Test: Start the engine and listen for any abnormal noises. Let it run for a few minutes and check again.

Common Pitfalls:

  • Incorrect Belt Routing: This is the most common mistake. Always double-check your diagram.
  • Damaged Pulleys: If a pulley is bad, a new belt won't solve the problem and might get damaged quickly.
  • Not Enough Leverage: The tensioner can be stiff; ensure you have a long enough tool for adequate leverage.

When to See a Shop:

  • If, after replacing the belt, the squealing persists, it could indicate a problem with one of the accessory pulleys (e.g., alternator, AC compressor, idler pulley) or the tensioner itself.
  • If you encounter difficulty with the tensioner or routing and feel you might damage something.
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