Posted on 6/27/2025
You turn the key or press the start button, and suddenly, a high-pitched squeal cuts through the calm. While your car might still run fine afterward, that brief but alarming sound can be a sign of trouble under the hood. Many drivers experience this, especially on cold mornings or during wet weather, but it shouldn’t be dismissed as normal wear. That squealing noise is often your vehicle’s way of telling you something is either slipping, misaligned, or nearing failure. Taking the time to understand what causes it can save you from an inconvenient breakdown and help preserve your engine components. A Worn or Loose Serpentine Belt One of the most frequent causes of a squealing noise during startup is a worn serpentine belt. This belt is responsible for powering critical systems like your alternator, air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, and water pump. Over time, it can become cracked, glazed, or stretched, reducing its grip and causing it to s ... read more