Hi forum. My name is Moe. I have had a 2001 Toyota Echo fro 6 years now. i recently put in a new sound system in. and everytime i stop at a light or slow down my timing belt squeaks. i was wondering should i buy a new alternator, timing belt or both.
if i go to a regular mechanic and say that i need a Drive belt change, will they know the difference or will the change the timing belt?
I normally do that sort of stuff myself, but when I do go to a mechanic, I tell them what the symptom is and ask them to fix that. That way, if the problem is a loose belt, they can adjust it and you're good to go. If you specifically ask them to change the belt, they will whether you need it or not.
As an aside: I believe the belt driving your ac, alternator, etc. is called a serpentine belt. The echo doesn't have a timing belt, it's a chain. If your mechanic is suggesting a timing belt change in your echo for any reason, find another mechanic.
The "alternator belt" is a better term since there's also a power steering right there. Try tightening the alt belt a bit; I like mine to chirp occasionally so I can be sure it's not too tight and strain the bearings; but if that doesn't keep it from being too annoying then it's change time as has been said. But carry your old one as a git-ya-home spare. And if you change it yourself you'll find (if it's like mine) the PS belt OUTSIDE the alt belt so both need to come off. Try leaving your PS belt off and see how you like it. I did and like the steering feel much better
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2000 Echo, 200,000kms, aftermarket cruise control (AudioVox CCS-100), Intelligent Battery Guard (CTC), Sirius Satellite Radio, Scangage II, Garmin GPS, synthetic engine and gearbox lubes , Silicone Brake Fluid, Power Steering belt removed, delighted with the "tiny perfect car"
that power steering belt is a pain to change so you may as well get a new one while you're at it. Personally, I found the steering quite heavy without power assist. Then again, I do like to grind a little rubber off the tires on corners
Echo's dont have timing belts they have timing chains and usually last the life of the engine needing no maintenance .The squeal you are hearing is coming from the accessory belts, perhaps time to change them..
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