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Squealing Noise from Engine Bay on 2017 Mirage G4

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Sarah K. · rep 0 · May 22, 5:35 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 ES

Hello everyone,

I've got a 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4, ES trim, with about 60,000 miles on it. For the past week or so, I've been hearing a loud 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 it's getting louder and lasting longer.

I suspect it might be the serpentine belt, but I'm not entirely sure. Could it be a pulley, or something else? Is this a common issue with the Mirage G4 at this mileage? Any tips on how to confirm it's the belt and if it's a DIY job for someone with basic tools?

Thanks for your insights!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 5:35 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

A squealing noise from your 2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4's engine bay, especially on startup or in damp conditions, is a classic symptom of a worn or loose serpentine belt. At 60,000 miles, it's definitely within the typical lifespan for a belt to start showing wear. Here’s how to diagnose and address it:

  1. Visual Inspection of the Serpentine Belt: With the engine off and cool, carefully inspect the serpentine belt. Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny, smooth appearance on the ribbed side), or missing ribs. A glazed belt indicates it's losing grip.
  2. Check Belt Tension: The Mirage G4 typically uses an automatic belt tensioner. Check if the tensioner pulley is moving freely and providing adequate tension. If the tensioner is stuck or weak, the belt can slip. You can usually push down on the belt midway between two pulleys; there should be minimal deflection.
  3. Isolate the Noise (Caution!): If you're comfortable and cautious, you can briefly spray a small amount of water (not WD-40 or belt dressing) onto the ribbed side of the belt while the engine is running and squealing. If the squeal temporarily stops or changes, it confirms the belt is the source. If it doesn't change, the issue might be a pulley.
  4. Inspect Pulleys: While the belt is off (or even on, with the engine off), manually spin each accessory pulley (alternator, AC compressor, power steering pump if applicable, idler pulley, tensioner pulley). Listen for grinding or roughness, and feel for excessive play. A failing bearing in a pulley can also cause squealing.
  5. Replace the Serpentine Belt: If the belt is worn, replacing it is a relatively straightforward DIY job on many vehicles, including the Mirage G4. You'll need to relieve tension on the automatic tensioner (usually with a wrench or breaker bar), remove the old belt, and route the new one correctly. Always draw a diagram or take a photo of the belt routing before removal.

Common Causes:

  • Worn or Glazed Serpentine Belt: The most common cause, leading to slippage.
  • Loose Belt Tension: While less common with automatic tensioners, a failing tensioner can cause this.
  • Failing Pulley Bearing: A bearing in an idler pulley, tensioner pulley, or an accessory (like the alternator) can seize or become noisy.

When to See a Shop:

  • If you're uncomfortable working around a running engine or with belt replacement.
  • If the noise persists after replacing the belt, suggesting a pulley issue that might require specialized tools or more complex diagnosis.
  • If you notice any other issues like dimming lights (alternator issue) or AC not working (AC compressor issue), as these could be related to the accessory driven by the belt.
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