How to Fix Engine Squeal: Diagnose Issues With Harmonic Balancer and Squealing Engine

Determining if you have a loose belt, a bad bearing, or a failing harmonic balancer can be difficult, but if you check a few things it can be much easier.My squeal occured when I used the powersteering, AC, or started the car. This means it isn't the water pump, or a compressor bearing. if the squealing only occured when the car started it would be more likely a water pump bearing. If it only occurs when you enage the AC then it is a compressor issue. A harmonic balancer reduces vibration by allowing some slipage between the belts and the engine. It also absorbs woble.I am opting to get my issue fixed by a professional because I don't have time, but replacing a harmonic balancer takes about 90 minutes and requires you use a puller tool, and know how to retension the belts.

First, listen to the car to hear the type of noise and try to find the source.

For this problem, it due to the different vibrations of the two rings separated by the rubber. A crack causes the vibration to create a loud noise. This location of the problem is awkward and difficult to fix, so the best option is to have a pro fix it.