I own a 2005 SE with 150k. Recently I developed a weird squeal that comes from the accessory drive belt. Never does it when cold or if I go to start it after it's been sitting hot for a few minutes, but if it has been sitting for a couple of hours it begins to squeal shortly after start up. Also if I start it and put on the AC at idle it does it.

I replaced the belt and tensioner bearing so it's not that. Can it be the AC compressor starting to go? It still works fine and blows cold air.

Anyone experience this?

 

Well, the a/c refrigerant also includes a lubricant. That lubricant is there to lubricate the a/c compressor. That may have deteriorated to the point, since you car is 8 years old, where it is not lubricating your compressor anymore. That said, whether or not that is causing your issue, I would recharge your refrigerant if it has never been done.

 

I was kind of thinking the same thing. I will do that! Thanks!

 

I had the same problem. My a/c compressor was constantly leaking all summer. Being the cheap idiot that I am, I keep bringing it to my step dads shop and flushing and charging it up. Then one day it decided to freeze up and the belt broke. I just bought a new belt and went around the compressor until I could afford to get it fixed. It happened around 140,xxx miles.

 

Thanks, I am going to get some oil into the compressor and go from there. It's not leaking thankfully.