What noise does a bad idler pulley make?
Squealing. When the engine is idling, a bad pulley may make a squealing sound. This is due to the bearings in the pulley going bad. The bearings may also make various other sounds such as clattering or even a rumbling sound, making the vehicle sound as if there was much more wrong than a bad pulley.
Can you drive without an idler pulley?
Idler pulleys are engine pulleys that are responsible for guiding and tensioning the engine drive belts. The idler pulley is an important component of the drive belt system of any car. Without it, you might not even be able to start your car, use your AC, and even steer the vehicle.
What does a bad idler pulley look like?
Visibly worn pulleys One of the first symptoms of an issue with an idler pulley is visible wear on the pulley. Over time, as the pulley spins against the belt, both components will eventually start to wear. This may lead to visible scoring marks on the surface of the pulley, as a result of contact with the belt.
What happens if the tensioner pulley fails?
When the tensioner or tensioner pulley fails, the loss of tension can cause the belt and pulleys to make high-pitched rattling or chirping noises. If the pulley bearing completely fails, it can also cause a squealing or even a grinding noise.
What happens if idler pulley fails?
Idler pulley slippage Once the pulley gets worn out it may start rubbing itself against the engine’s belt. This will produce the squeaking noise which gets even worse as you continue driving the car. If not replaced immediately it may cause damage to parts around the belt if it fails.
How long does a bad pulley last?
The time you get before they eventually fail and break down sits somewhere between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. These are pretty wide margins, but much like with any other component their life spans will depend on your driving skills and maintenance habits.
When should I replace idler pulley?
An idler pulley is expected to wear over time, and eventually the pulley will fail. Replacement intervals for idler pulleys vary, but are usually within the 50,000 to 100,000 mile range. Replacement often coincides with expected serpentine/accessory belt replacement periods.
Can a bad tensioner cause engine vibration?
It’s necessary to get rid of the tensioner. Timing belts as well as other belts which are loose or cracked can cause parts to not move or transform a regular rate of speed which can lead to vibration from the car’s engine. …
How long can I drive with a squeaky idler pulley?
So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises. The car can still run for months or break after a few days.
Can you spray wd40 on pulleys?
And yes, its OK to use since the bearings are prelubed and sealed on each of the idlers, tensioner and alt bearings. If it stops squeeking when its sprayed then it lubed it enough to stop it and then it shows the seal has failed, or bearing is failing and has dryed up the bearing.