squeaking noise from the belts

[2001celica]

Hi guys

recently my 2001 celica (2ZZ-GE) has started to have some squeaking noise from the belts (don't know if it is fan belt or other belts). I tried to use WD-40 and it seems stopped the problem a bit. Next day I started up the car, squeaking noise still there but seems it is getting louder and louder. (it won't go away even the engine is warm)

Went to supercheap and brought some belt dressing, tried...and it works for 5 seconds and squeaking noise is getting louder and louder. I just cant drive the car now as the noise really freak me out...
engine has only done 69,000km, anyone knows how to fix this problem?
maybe I shouldnt use WD-40 in the first place

[Akane]

The belt will get a bit loose as it age, it needs to be tightened, refrain yourself from using any spary products as it'll just make things worse, as it'll promote more slipping. Think diesel + burnouts. Sure it makes less noise but it'll just make it slip more.

Most likely to be the Alternator belt, check the condition of the belt visually and tighten if needed.

[AE82 FXGT]

I find the best way to diagnose belt problems (from the start) is to have it running and drip water on to each belt and see when the noise stops.

I would refrain from using any spray on product (inc crc wd40 etc) on belts.

The only real way to fix the problem would be to either re-tension the belt or replace the belt.

If you look at the ribbed side of the belt and there are little polished bits in the valley of the ribs (or the whole belt is bottoming out) the belt needs replacing.

[2001celica]

thanks for the reply.
it has been making a bit of noise when I started the car and usually go away when it is warm. I checked the other Toyota forum and it appears to be a common problem for Celica.

So if I am going to tighten the belt a bit, how do I go about doing it?

also, when you mentioned those spray product makes it slip more, is that the reason why the squeaking noise getting louder after I have used those spray product?

[Santa'sBoostinSleigh]

WD40/CRC are lubricants, you want your belts to drive (grip) not slip, slipping normally results in loud squealing noises.
as mentioned earlier, you want to tighten your belts to stop them slipping.
if you arent mechanically minded, get someone who is to do it for you

[rollaholic]

and if you do decide to replace them, i personally prefer to use gates belts from repco (though i havent tried any supercheap belts)

gates cost a little more but in my experience stay tight and quiet, whereas cheaper brands seem to stretch a little and start squeaking again after a few weeks

[2001celica]

thanks for the info! its really helpful!
is it still safe to drive it? e.g. going to the workshop (short distance 15 mins drive)

[rollaholic]

yeah should be fine

even if the belt breaks should still be able to limp in