Weird Engine Sound 2003 Corolla - help!

[max8404]

Hey guys, I have a question concerning my engine. When I start the car and it's running idle, about 800rpm, there is a weird squeaking sound coming from the engine. Anytime the rpm goes up just a little bit, even up to 1000rpm, then the sound goes away. I thought it was a problem with cylinders, but I replaced my spark plugs yesterday, and the sound still remained the same at idle engine. I am wondering if it's the timing belt or if there's something I need to oil up for the sound to stop. Any ideas? The car is in excellent shape and has 36k miles. It's also manual transmission.

Thanks!

[ganda1f]

Don't think it would be the timing belt. Squeaking sounds usually come from slipping belts, but the timing belt has teeth so it cannot slip. Otherwise synchronization between valves and pistons is lost and they will hit each other in an interference engine. Anyway the engine would not even run. I would rather suspect the belts that drive the generator, water pump, power-steering, air conditioning compressor etc. These might slip if not tensioned correctly. Check if their tension is according to specs. Your manual probably states how much they should deflect if you press on them with a certain force.

What do you mean about the cylinders?

[max8404]

Oh nothing, it's definitely wrong, it's not the cylinders. Yeah, I think it's most likely the belt being loose.

Also, I noticed that sometimes, when I start my car, the sound isn't there, and other times I start it, it's there. Also, when I drive the car for a while, say 20 minutes, the sound also goes away.

Oh, and to check the belt tension, what instrument do you use? Would it be easier to take it in so they can check the tension? I dont' want it costing a lot since I am a student..

[max8404]

The engine itself runs fine with no problem, stable idle RPM, doesn't choke or anything.

[retiredat44]

buy some belt lube in a spray can. Spray it on the blelt and see if the noise changes or disappears..

[adsaba1969]

The problem is either the serp. belt or the tensioner. That's a common problem in the 03-04 corollas.
Do not use belt dressing on the serp belt. If you're not covered under warranty it is an easy replacement. PM me and I'll shoot you the DIY.

BTW we don't have a timing belt, we have a timing chain, so that is definitely not the problem.

[max8404]

Originally Posted by adsaba1969

The problem is either the serp. belt or the tensioner. That's a common problem in the 03-04 corollas.
Do not use belt dressing on the serp belt. If you're not covered under warranty it is an easy replacement. PM me and I'll shoot you the DIY.

BTW we don't have a timing belt, we have a timing chain, so that is definitely not the problem.

Yeah, I was kind of weary of using belt spray, I thought that it might cause slipping.

[daniel2002p]

mine did the same thing as you describe, and it was the serp belt for me

D

[jeepwranglerg]

Today its bad lol sounds like bearing noises or a turbo setup hehe. Im going to post a new thread titled how to change a serp belt 2003 orolla