7 Reasons Why You Hearing Squeaking Noise From Engine When Idle & Their Possible Solutions!

Published:

Updated:

Author:

squeaking noise from engine when idle

Disclaimer

As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.

The engine is the core center of your vehicle. And hearing squeaking noise from the engine when idle can be quite alarming and unsettling. Plus, fixing this issue may cost you a grand amount.

Generally, the noise can be caused by various factors, such as bad belt tension, worn-out pulley, loose or defective serpentine, and so on. It’s important to identify the roots of the problem before trying to fix it.

I’ll share these common causes of engine squeaking when idle and what you can do to fix the problem in the following discussion. So let’s dive in!

squeaking noise from engine when idle

Squeaking Noise From Engines When Idle: Causes and Reasons At A Glance

Take a quick look at the following chart organized with the common causes of this particular problem and their quick solution.

Common CausesPossible Solutions
Worn out or loose serpentine beltApply some belt lube or replace the belt
Bad belt tensionerReplace it with a new one
Worn-out pulley or pulley bearingReplace the worn-out part to fix
Defective water pumpSwap the bad pump with a new one
Defective or clogged PCV valveClean the PCV valve or change the defective one
Worn-out camshaft synchronizerReplace it with a new one
Leaks on valve cover gasketInstall a new cover gasket

Squeaking Noise from Engines When Idle: Detailed Insights on Causes and Possible Solutions

Here are the common problems for squeaking noise from the engine, along with solutions that I’ve found to be easy and quick.

1. Worn Out or Loose Serpentine Belt

The serpentine belt is responsible for distributing power to engine accessories, such as AC, alternator, or power steering pump. If the belt is worn out or loose, you can hear a squeaking noise from the engine when idle or driving at low RPMs.

Moreover, the drive belt lasts for 80,000 to 100,000 km. After that, it’ll start to wear out and become weak. Consequently, you may hear a squeaking noise from the engine at idle as a sign of replacement.

Solution

I applied a belt lube onto the belt while the engine was running as a temporary fix. For permanent fixing, I suggest replacing it. It can cost you between $50 to $90. Here’s how to replace it:

  • Locate the defective serpentine belt.
  • Remove the belt tension using a wrench.
  • Swap the old belt with a new one, following the owner’s manual.
  • Adjust the tensioner again.

2. Bad Belt Tensioner

The belt tensioners and pulleys function with the serpentine belt to deliver power. Belt tensioners are stretched to maintain the right tension and operate the accessories function quietly. Therefore, it starts to become weak and wear out over time, and that’s when you face this noise issue.

Solution

To fix this problem, you may need to spend between $100 to $250. Here’s my guide to replacing old and bad belt tensioners:

  • Locate the belt tensioner near the serpentine belt secured with bolts.
  • Remove the bolts with a wrench and take out the old tensioner.
  • Install the new tensioner and tighten the bolts to secure it.
  • Adjust the right tension on the new tensioner.

3. Worn Out Pulley or Pulley Bearing

Just like a belt tensioner, the pulley is equally responsible for transmitting power. Hence, any damage to the pulley bolts or pulley itself may result in squeaking noise when the engine is idle.

Solution

You may need to invest $40 to $90 for replacement. And I usually follow the below steps to fix the worn-out pulley bearing problem:

  • Remove the engine cover. One of the benefits of removing the engine cover is that you get easy access to the serpentine belt while working.
  • Pulley is located near the serpentine belt secured with bolts.
  • Remove the bolts using a wrench.
  • Now replace the worn-out part with a new one, pulley or pulley bearing.
  • Once the installation process is done, check other accessories.

4. Defective Water Pump

This component deals with the coolant system. It pushes coolant into the engine from the radiator through the coolant system.

The water pump also gets worn out over time, especially due to bad bearings. You may hear a squeaking noise (not too loud) coming from the engine when you have a defective water pump.

Solution

Replacing the water pump will solve this issue. But installing the new water pump can be expensive, between $300 to $600. Here’s what you can do to replace it:

  • Use a drain pan to collect the coolant and drain it from the radiator.
  • Release tension on the serpentine belt and remove it from the water pump pulley.
  • Remove the old water pump using a socket or wrench.
  • Install the new water pump and secure it with bolts
  • Reinstall the serpentine belt and adjust the tension.
  • Refill the coolant and check if the problem is solved.

5. Defective or Clogged PCV Valve

This small valve stands for PCV (positive crankcase ventilation). The PCV valve is responsible for removing gasses from the crankcase. But it can get worn out over time which can cause the squeaking noise.

A clogged PCV valve can also blow out the primary seal on the rear side, which blows air through the rear seal and causes noise when idle.

Solution

Fixing this issue can cost you between $140 to $200. Here are my easy steps on how to replace a defective PCV valve:

  • The PCV valve is located near the intake manifold.
  • Remove the defective or clogged valve from its housing using pliers or screwdrivers.
  • Use a cleaning solution and a rag to clean the housing where the PCV valve was located.
  • If the PCV valve is bad, consider installing a new valve.
  • Secure the valve in the housing and then check if the valve is functioning correctly.

6. Worn-Out Camshaft Synchronizer

The camshaft synchronizer functions by restoring accurate engine timing and reducing misfires, uneven running, and engine stalling.

But excessive heat dries up and wears out the camshaft synchronizer’s internal brush. Consequently, it fails to operate functionally, which may result in squeaking noises at idle state.

Solution

To fix this problem, you need to replace the worn-out camshaft synchronizer, which may cost you between $75 to $170. Follow these steps to replace:

  • It’s located near the timing belt of the front engine.
  • Use a wrench to remove the old camshaft synchronizer from the engine.
  • Install the new synchronizer and secure it with bolts.
  • Now start the engine and check if the new camshaft synchronizer is functioning correctly.

7. Leaks on Valve Cover Gasket

This gasket is responsible for sealing oil inside the valve compartment. But when the gasket decay and dry out, it may crack or leak which results in oil leaking in the combustion chamber. That’s when you may hear a squeaking noise coming from the engine at idle.

Solution

This solution may cost you between $90 to $250. Here’s how I replaced a leaking valve cover gasket without damaging any part:

  • The valve cover gasket is located on the top of the engine.
  • Use a socket to remove the bolts and the old gasket.
  • Install the new valve cover gasket and tighten the bolts securely.
  • Start the engine and check for any oil leaks around the valve cover.

People Also Ask

Here are some common questions I often hear from people:

FAQ Gear Head New

Can I drive with a squeaking noise coming from the engine when idle?

It’s safe to drive your vehicle with this issue for a few days. As it indicates that your vehicle has defective parts or other issues related to the engine, it’s better to solve it as early as possible.

Can dirty oil cause engine noise when idle?

Yes, dirty oil can cause the engine to run less smoothly and create more friction between the moving parts, leading to increased engine noise when idle and even in motion.

Why is the belt squeaking at low RPM?

The belt squeals when the belt drive system has improper tension. A worn automatic tensioner commonly causes this issue. Moreover, a contaminated belt or a worn-out belt can also contribute to the problem.

Concluding Words

Generally, a squeaking noise from the engine when idle is a common problem that can be easily resolved. It’s usually caused by worn-out belts or pulleys or other defective parts like PCV valves, camshaft synchronizers, water pumps, and more.

Regular maintenance and timely replacement of these components can prevent this issue. If the noise persists, I recommend consulting a professional mechanic for further inspection. Don’t ignore any unusual sounds coming from your engine.

About the author

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *