Auxiliary drive belt squealing

[James C]

Now the colder weather is here my auxiliary drive belt has started squealing intermittently. It’s only doing it when the engine is totally cold and has no load on it, and the weather is either cool & wet or very cold. As soon as the engine is up to temperature or you put some load on it the noise goes away. The only exception has been once or twice when it’s been near freezing when it’s really squealed like a pig (rather than an annoying squeak) as I first pull away. Back off the throttle and it goes away never to return that trip.


I’m wondering if this means I only need to adjust a tensioner, or if I need the whole belt & tensioner replacing? Is it a DIY job, or are there any special tools required? My mate’s a mechanic, so I might be able to borrow anything special from him. Rather not have to take it to a garage with Xmas looming. Oh, the car’s an 03 Signum 3.0 CDTi V6.

[Big Sig]

Mine did the same, I just replaced the belt and it never squeaked again (while I had it). I got the garage to do it, only paid for the belt as they messed it up the first time by saying they had one in stock, kept the car all day and then found out it was one for a 1.9!

[James C]

Anyone know if this is DIY or if it needs any special tools please?