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Squealing Noise from Engine Bay on 2017 Mirage G4

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Brittany E. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:36 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 SE with about 85,000 miles, and lately, I've been hearing a loud squealing noise coming from the engine bay. It's most noticeable when I first start the car in the morning, especially if it's a bit cold outside. The squealing also seems to get louder or more frequent when I turn on the air conditioning.

I'm suspecting it might be the serpentine belt, but I'm not entirely sure. Is this a common issue for these cars? How difficult is it to replace the serpentine belt on a Mirage G4? I'm fairly handy with basic car maintenance, but I've never tackled a belt replacement before. Any tips or guides would be super helpful!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:36 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

  1. Likely Cause: Based on your description, a squealing noise that's more prominent on cold starts and when the AC is engaged is a classic symptom of a worn or loose serpentine (drive) belt. The AC compressor puts extra load on the belt, making any slippage more apparent.

  2. Other Potential Causes (Less Common): While the belt is the most likely culprit, sometimes a failing tensioner pulley or an accessory pulley bearing (like the alternator or AC compressor pulley) can also cause squealing. However, start with the belt.

  3. DIY Serpentine Belt Replacement (General Steps for Mirage G4):

    • Safety First: Ensure the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
    • Locate the Belt Diagram: Look for a diagram under the hood (often on the radiator support) showing the belt routing. If not there, take a clear photo before removal.
    • Identify the Tensioner: The Mirage G4 typically uses an automatic tensioner. You'll need to locate it and identify the bolt or square drive opening used to relieve tension.
    • Relieve Tension: Using a wrench or a breaker bar on the tensioner pulley bolt (or a square drive if present), rotate the tensioner to release tension on the belt. Hold it in this position.
    • Remove Old Belt: Carefully slip the old belt off the pulleys while holding the tensioner.
    • Inspect Pulleys: While the belt is off, manually spin each pulley (alternator, AC compressor, water pump, idler pulleys) to check for excessive play, grinding noises, or resistance. This can help identify a failing bearing.
    • Install New Belt: Route the new belt according to the diagram, ensuring it sits correctly in all pulley grooves. The last pulley to slip it onto should be one that's easy to access, often the smooth idler pulley.
    • Release Tensioner: Slowly release the tensioner, allowing it to apply proper tension to the new belt.
    • Double Check: Ensure the belt is perfectly seated on all pulleys. Start the engine and listen for any squealing. It might squeal briefly as it seats, but it should stop quickly.

  4. When to See a Shop: If the squealing persists after replacing the belt, or if you notice any of the pulleys are wobbly, noisy, or difficult to turn by hand, it's time to visit a professional. A failing tensioner or accessory bearing can lead to catastrophic belt failure and leave you stranded.

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