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2018 Challenger R/T - Squealing noise from engine bay, suspect serpentine belt?

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Chris P. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:47 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2018 Dodge Challenger R/T

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2018 Dodge Challenger R/T with about 75,000 miles on it, and lately, I've been hearing a pretty distinct squealing noise coming from the engine bay. It's most noticeable on cold starts and sometimes when I accelerate quickly. It sounds like it's coming from the passenger side, near the front of the engine.

I'm thinking it might be the serpentine belt, or maybe one of the pulleys. I haven't replaced the belt since I bought the car, so it's probably due. Has anyone else experienced this with their Challenger, especially around this mileage?

Is this a relatively straightforward DIY job, or should I just take it to a shop? Any tips on how to diagnose if it's the belt, the tensioner, or an idler pulley? Thanks in advance!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:47 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

A squealing noise from your 2018 Dodge Challenger R/T's engine bay is a common symptom of a worn serpentine belt or a failing pulley. Given your mileage, it's definitely time to investigate.

Here's how to diagnose and address the issue:

  1. Initial Inspection (Engine Off and Cool!):

    • Visual Check: Carefully inspect the serpentine belt for any signs of wear, such as cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny, smooth appearance), or missing ribs. A glazed belt loses its grip and can squeal.
    • Pulley Check: With the belt still on, try to wiggle each pulley (alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, water pump, idler pulleys, and tensioner). There should be minimal to no play. Listen for any grinding or squeaking when you manually spin them.
    • Tensioner Check: Observe the automatic belt tensioner. It should maintain consistent tension. If it looks weak, wobbly, or doesn't spring back properly, it might be failing.

  2. DIY Serpentine Belt Replacement (If Belt/Tensioner is the Cause):

    • Safety First: Ensure the engine is completely off and cool. Disconnect the negative battery terminal for added safety.
    • Diagram: Take a clear photo or draw a diagram of the belt routing before removal. This is crucial for correct reinstallation.
    • Release Tension: Use a breaker bar or ratchet on the square drive opening of the tensioner pulley to rotate it and release tension. Carefully remove the old belt.
    • Inspect Pulleys (Belt Off): With the belt removed, spin each pulley by hand. They should spin freely and smoothly without any noise, resistance, or wobble. Any noisy or rough-spinning pulley indicates a failing bearing and needs replacement.
    • Install New Belt: Route the new belt according to your diagram. Use the tensioner to create slack and slip the belt over the final pulley. Double-check that the belt is seated correctly in all grooves.

  3. Common Causes of Squealing:

    • Worn or Stretched Serpentine Belt: The most frequent culprit.
    • Failing Automatic Belt Tensioner: If it can't maintain proper tension, the belt will slip and squeal.
    • Worn Idler Pulley Bearing: These bearings can seize or become noisy.
    • Failing Accessory Bearing: Bearings in components like the alternator, power steering pump, or AC compressor can also fail and cause squealing.

  4. When to See a Shop:

    • If the squealing persists after replacing the belt and tensioner.
    • If you identify a seized or failing accessory pulley bearing (e.g., alternator, AC compressor), as these replacements can be more complex and require specialized tools.
    • If you're uncomfortable performing the DIY steps or lack the necessary tools. A professional can accurately diagnose the exact source of the noise and prevent further damage to your engine's accessory drive system.
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