Squeaky V-belt? Check out how to fix it!

When a V-belt squeaks, it annoys everyone around. Fortunately, these noises can be eliminated. However, you should be aware that this structural element of the car can be located in several different places. So, first you need to find the source of the problem. Replacing the belt is not that difficult, and it can be done relatively cheaply. What is it really and how does it work? What you need to know before you start to do it yourself! What should I buy for a squeaky V-belt? Do the drugs work? You will see that you do not have to expose yourself to the high costs associated with visiting a mechanic. We present effective solutions!

Squeaky belt? Find out what it is first

The V-belt is used in the V-shaped transmission, as its name already indicates. It has a trapezoidal cross section and its two ends are joined together. It consists of several layers. First of all, with a carrier layer of steel or polyamide. The next is a pliable layer of rubber or rubber, and the last is a mixture of fabric and rubber. All this is fixed with a vulcanized tape. Each element of the design of this item impresses with its high flexibility and durability. But how do you know when things start to go bad?

V-belt squeaks - what does it mean?

When a V-belt squeaks, it usually means that it is already worn out. That's why you need to listen carefully to how your car works. If you hear a buzzing or rattling sound on the hood, this may be a sign that this part needs to be replaced as soon as possible. The belt should not be allowed to break, because if this happens while driving, it can be fatal.

V-belt squeaks while driving - need to stop immediately?

If the V-belt snaps while driving, stop the vehicle on the side of the road and find out where the noise is coming from. It is necessary to check whether the belt was used to drive the coolant or not. If not, even if you break up, you can continue to live on. However, you must be careful and turn off all additional devices, including air conditioning and radio. In this situation, the battery does not work properly. In the second case, immediately turn off the engine and call for help. Otherwise, it may turn out that the device will overheat at any time, and this may cause the entire mechanism to fail.

The V-belt creaks on a cold engine, most likely worn out.

A worn V-belt squeaks when starting the engine. So you don't even have to go on tour to notice it. If this happens, remember when it was last replaced. Vehicle manufacturers usually indicate how long such an element should last on average and how often it should be replaced. If the time has come (or even passed), you should definitely go to the mechanic.

When is V-belt squeak not so alarming?

Usually, the distance that can be covered on one tape is about 100 kilometers. In the case of older models, it was possible to additionally tighten the belt, which could briefly extend its service life. If the V-belt only squeaked once, such as when crossing a puddle, or only for a moment after turning on the car, you have nothing to worry about.

New V-belt squeaks - what could this mean?

What to do if the belt starts to squeak, even if you just replaced it? Maybe the mechanic just installed it wrong. It may be too tight or too loose. Another cause could be worn pulleys. It also matters how many devices in the car you use at the same time. If you drive with your high beams on, your navigation, radio, air conditioner on, charging your phone, etc., the battery may be charged and the belt may squeak or make other noises.

V-belt squeaks in the rain

The V-belt sometimes also squeaks when it's raining outside. High humidity can reduce its adhesion or simply reveal a problem that arose earlier. For this reason, drivers usually struggle with the problem of belt squeaking during the autumn and winter. That's when you'll most quickly know if your mechanic has done the right job.

Preparing the V-Belt - Temporary Solution

V-belt squeaks and you want to deal with it as quickly as possible? A temporary solution may be to buy a special drug that will prevent this. It is also not bad if you are annoyed by short squeaks sometimes even from a properly working belt. However, do not forget that if the problem is serious, this will only delay the visit to the mechanic. Sooner or later, the belt will either make unpleasant sounds again or break while driving. The latter is better not to do, because the consequences can be fatal.

V-belt creaks - how to lubricate it?

How to lubricate the V-belt so that it does not squeak? You do not need to buy expensive drugs. When the V-belt squeaks, you can use:

• universal oil;
• chain oil. 

The price of the first one is PLN 20-25 for about 150 ml. So this is not a high cost, and the oil will allow you to get rid of the problem at least for a while. Such a product is worth having in the car, especially if you are going on a trip. This type of preparation reduces friction and allows the car to run smoothly for a while.

Squeaky new belt? Increase tire life! 

Homemade solutions are not the only option. Of course, you can buy a special spray or preparation adapted to the composition of the V-belts. Why is it sometimes worth investing in them or asking a mechanic to use them? The special product will extend the life of the rubber and improve the grip of the entire belt. So it will last longer, and its operation will be much more efficient. Remember that such drugs should be applied very accurately. The recommended ones include, for example, MA Professional Belt, which can be bought for 10-15 zł (400 ml).

Another drug for poly-V-belt creaking, i.e. talc

Does the V-belt squeak and you are looking for another alternative, for example, because of the fear of spilling liquid while driving? Pay attention to technical talc. Can be applied to the belt with a brush. It is best to do this in several thin but evenly distributed layers. In this way, you will increase the traction of the belt, slightly increasing its life and minimizing the squeaks that it makes. However, attention must be paid to the fact that talc dust can get into the pulley bearings, which in turn will cause them to wear faster. For this reason, oil-based preparations are more recommended.

V-belt creaks - how much does it cost to replace?

You don't have to worry about costly V-belt replacement. It is better to get down to business as soon as signs of wear begin to appear, because the replacement price is only about 3 euros, the strap itself is one of the cheapest items, and some straps can be bought for as little as a few zlotys. . However, it cannot be denied that some models can reach dizzying amounts. You can easily find, for example, those that cost about 40 euros.

When a V-belt squeaks, don't underestimate it. The worst thing that can happen is to break it, and you can't do that. For your safety, replace this element if you notice signs of wear. As a general rule, you won't pay much and you'll solve the noise problem and prevent belt squeak from getting worse.