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Why does my car squeak when I accelerate?

Lately whenever I start or accelerate my 2017 Toyota Rav4 I hear an odd squeaking noise. I don’t want to take it into the shop if it’s something as simple as a little rainy here in Boston. Should I be concerned about this squeaking noise?

avatar
Laura Salvas · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
The good news is your car squeaks when you accelerate your
Rav4
rdue to a routine issue. The bad news is it’s probably not just the crummy
Boston
weather. The reason why your car squeaks when you accelerate is likely that a belt in your car’s engine needs replacing.
Belts typically last between 50,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the belt type.
Regular wear
causes the belts to stretch out. When you start your car or accelerate, the belt starts moving at a higher speed and squeaks or squeals if it is not tight enough.
You are onto something with the weather theory, though, as very
cold temperatures
can make belts in your car less stretchy and cause the same squeaking as years of wear.
The belts typically found in car engines, depending on make and model, might include:
  • Fan belt
  • Timing belt
  • Alternator belt
  • Serpentine belt or several V belts
If the problem continues outside of particularly cold days, you will want to have a mechanic look at your car and replace any worn belts.
When having your belts replaced, consider replacing your current
car insurance
with a policy that saves you more money.
Jerry
is a
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that can compare coverage options for you in moments, show you the best rates, and help you switch providers. **The average Jerry user saves more than $800 a year! **
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