| Subject: | 98 Eclipse Squealing and Will not start |
| Question: |
I have a 1998 Eclipse with 99,600 miles. Over the past couple of months, I have been hearing a high pitched squealing sound coming from under the hood when I start the car and sometimes when idling. I notice this usually happens on cold mornings. And it doesn't happen every day. Just maybe 2 or 3 times a week. This morning, I noticed the sound when I cranked my car. I was able to drive it for about 2 miles before the "check battery" light came on. The the car lost power. When I tried to crank again, the car would not start. All systems (radio, horn) were working. It seems like it wants to start but does not. Any idea what can be going on? |
| Answer: | Fshire, I would guess that if you opened your hood, you may see that your alternator belt has broke, or the tensioner for the belt has broke. The high pitched squealing usually means a belt is slipping. In this case, it's most likely your alternator belt. The causes for it to squeal are usually due to the fact that the belt is extremely worn and/or the belt tensioner is failing. Seeing the 'check battery' light come on means there is a problem with your charging system. Your car will not be able to start if your alternator is not able to function. So all these things point to either your alternator, the alternator belt,
the belt tensioner, or any combination of the these. Have your car towed
to a mechanic to inspect and replace any of the items they find that are
faulty. |