| kjwillis |
I have recently noticed that when I turn on my A/C I hear a high pitched squeal coming from the front passenger side engine bay. The squeal only happens when the A/C is on and will stop when I turn it off. Is the belt the problem or is it something more? I have looked under the hood and it looks like that belt would be fairly simple to replace. Does any one know how to get the belt off?
2003 Pilot EXL |
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| 75blazer |
| On the surface, it sounds like a belt to me. |
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| N_Jay |
Belt to AC clutch.
Usually the belt. |
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| whizmo |
What you're hearing is the belt momentarily slipping on the pulleys until the compressor comes up to speed. Torque demands are highest when you engage the compressor from a stop and if the belt is loose/worn, it squeals until the compressor is brought up to speed.
- Mark |
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| garvinw |
| I've been having the same issue. I took my Pilot to my local dealer and was told that it was the AC Belt Tensioner, not the belt itself. Although I do believe that the belt will have/need to be replaced at the same time. I'll keep you guys posted if I get the service done any time soon. |
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| bjanke |
| I have the same problem with my 2003 Honda Pilot - squealing noise when A/C turns on. Does anybody know if there is a TSB available for this problem? |
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| dgipalo |
quote: Originally posted by bjanke
I have the same problem with my 2003 Honda Pilot - squealing noise when A/C turns on. Does anybody know if there is a TSB available for this problem?
Issue is most likely either A/C compressor problems, a worn belt or a defective tensioner. Diagnosis consists of looking at the belt (cheapest), testing the belt tension, and then checking the A/C compressor pressures.
No TSB - on an 7 year-old vehicle, a worn part is quite likely. |
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| gibby64 |
Replace the belt before you do anything else and see if it goes away... replacement is easy with a long closed end #14 wrench... put the wrench on the tensioner bolt and push it counter clockwise, it will be a little tough, but it will take the pressure off of the belt so you can slip it off...
i recommend replacing with a Goodyear Gaterback belt over OEM Dayco... Much better belt and will last much longer...
I got mine at AutoZone for $18 |
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| Chasmoore |
| It's most likely the tensioner. Mine was squealing w/the AC on and my independent shop replaced it while replacing my timing belt, water pump & belts. They said it was completely shot and charged $100. additional to put in a new one. |
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| garvinw |
quote: Originally posted by Chasmoore
It's most likely the tensioner. Mine was squealing w/the AC on and my independent shop replaced it while replacing my timing belt, water pump & belts. They said it was completely shot and charged $100. additional to put in a new one.
What was the total charge for service? I'm thinking of biting the bullet and having mine done as well. |
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| gibby64 |
quote: Originally posted by garvinw
What was the total charge for service? I'm thinking of biting the bullet and having mine done as well.
try a new belt first... i'm serious... its $17 bucks for the good one... fixed it for me! |
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| Chasmoore |
| I agree - start with the belt. I'm saying that my mechanic had everything apart for a timing belt, was replacing all external belts anyway, and found the tensioner to be worn out completely. The Honda dealer also said it was the tensioner a while back. Total cost, to answer the other question: $742. for the timing belt, water pump, belts and the new tensioner. Not a fun way to spend that kind of money but a much better price than my dealer quoted. |
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