Cold start engine squeal

I replaced the serpentine belt on my 2008 4.0L with a Toyota belt I bought off Amazon. I had a belt squeal start shortly afterwards, which didn't exist with the previous belt from the factory. After several years, and several times checking the pulleys for bearing issues, I replaced the belt again with (I think) a Gates belt, and miraculously the squeal went away.

No idea if I got a counterfeit Toyota belt from Amazon, or if they sold me a flawed one, but that's definitely something to check. I generally prefer OEM maintenance parts, but I'll stick with Gates serpentine belts from now on...lol

 

if noise goes away when you spray water in it its a bad belt, if noise stays its a bearing/ or water pump/ alt etc. water always works to determine if its a belt

 

Interesting. I had a squeal, got a belt from the local Toyota dealer, after a month or so, squeal came back. Water always makes the noise go away. I guess I'll try another belt.

 

Definitely go with a well known aftermarket belt!

 

That would be better than a factory belt?

 

From my experience, yes!

I replaced my OEM belt with a Toyota belt around 80 K miles as a preventative move. It started squeaking after a month or two, and continued until I finally replaced it with a Gates serpentine belt, which has been completely quiet ever since. I checked the pulleys and tensioner, and nothing was worn, grinding, or noisy. That eventually was confirmed with the Gates belt.

I don't know who Toyota contracted out to build their serpentine belts, but they need better quality control. You might get a good one, you might get a crappy one, but for the premium price you're paying for a Toyota badged belt, every one should be perfect. Save a little money and go aftermarket in this case. (Didn't think I would ever say that about a Toyota replacement part...lol)

 

Thanks, that's great info! The other odd thing is the belt is quiet during winter months but squeals when it gets over 50-60 degrees.

 

My bad, need to add a minor correction. I installed a Dayco belt, not a Gates best.

The craptastic Toyota belt was part #

$57 90916-A2001 Alternator and Fan Belt

90916-A2001. I'll never buy another.

 

Ordered!
$45 on Amazon with free delivery. Well, free since I had reward points!