2007 Camry Squeaking sound from SERP tensioner belt area - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

harrystamberg · 09-28-2011, 06:18 PM

Hi All,

I started hearing squeaking noise around the Serp Belt Tensioner a week ago. I hear it during idling and louder when A/C is on. I took it to my local mechanic. This guy is very good and he is a certified Lexus mechanic.

He told me that the Serp Belt is the problem. He changed it, but squeaking noise still continued. The mechanic then told me that we need to change the Serp tensioner itself. I changed that too. Still the noise didnt go. He told me to change the Tensioner Pulley. I changed too, but the noise is still there.

I have already spent around $600 and I have the same issue as it was there before. Mechanic at some point said he is not able to figure out what the issue is.

I browsed online and could see some complain that it could be water pump or alternator. I dont want spend any more money on getting a new spare part until I know that is the problem. Please advise what should I do next? Do you recommend me to take it to a Toyota dealership? I know that would be costly again for me. But if there is nothing else I can do, I can do it. It is very annoying that even after spending so much, the issue is still not fixed.

regards
Harry

John1960 · 09-28-2011, 06:31 PM

With all due respect to your mechanic, I think his diagnostic skills may need a little polish. A stethoscope (or broomstick handle for shade tree mechanics) would help pinpoint the source of the noise. If I were you, I would be expecting a refund for the labor.

socalcamryse · 09-29-2011, 05:52 AM

I had a similar problem with my 07 se v6. It turned out to be an idler pulley that was going out. My mechanic said there are 2, and 1 is making the noise, but recc. changing out both, along with the belt. Now, car is quiet like it should be.

If you are near Pasadena, CA, check out LTS Mastertech. Mike does a great job and is fairly priced.

as2ortiz · 09-29-2011, 06:45 PM

Mine has a similar problem, but it was the belt tensor and the alternator bearing. So I change both of them.

***JohnGD*** · 09-29-2011, 06:50 PM

If after $600 the noise stays the same yeah the mechanic sucks.

Maybe use a short segment of garden hose and see if OP can isolate the source of the noise. Check the alternator area maybe?

If it's the alternator then get a Denso rebuilt (densoaftermarket.com) or if you want to experiment with an Autozone Duralast reman with lifetime warranty (~$163). At least if it squeaks again you'll get another one free?

http://contentinfo.autozone.com/znet...15640/image/4/