Why Is My Car Making a Weird Belt Noise? A Simple Guide to That Annoying Squeal, Chirp, or Scream
You’re driving along, everything feels normal, and then it starts: a high-pitched squeal, a chirpy chatter, or sometimes a loud screech that makes you think something is about to explode. Nine times out of ten, that awful sound is coming from one of the rubber belts under the hood.
Let’s break down the most common belt noises, what they usually mean, and what you can (safely) do about them.
1. The Classic Cold-Start Squeal (Lasts 5–30 seconds)
You start the car on a cool or damp morning and hear a loud squeeeeeeeeal that slowly fades away as the engine warms up.

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