Faint squeaking noise when engine is running
Platinum Member
Joined: 12-06-2009
Posts: 11,718
From: Alabama
Yes they can Mike. Right before they lockup. But, in the old days, I've heard ones make some small chirp like noises also. Remember,it's a bearing,so it could be prone to different noises as it slowly fails.
Deceased
Joined: 06-30-2010
Posts: 25,739
From: Kannapolis NC
Very true George, I think donbrew is on track with recommending the OP invest in a Mechanic's Stethoscope, very handy gadgets and inexpensive.
Just don't get one in the "wrong place" while the engine is running, I slipped on day working on a Malibu with a 396, thought I'd lost my ears when the water pump pulley ate the stethoscope.
Just don't get one in the "wrong place" while the engine is running, I slipped on day working on a Malibu with a 396, thought I'd lost my ears when the water pump pulley ate the stethoscope.
Senior Member
Joined: 11-05-2010
Posts: 1,492
From: Detroit, Michigan USA
I've ruled out any component that I can see. As far as I can tell, the squeaking sounds almost like a shot bearing because it sounds like a squeaky wheel on an old office chair. The sound doesn't seem to get louder when the RPM's rise, I really only notice it at idle. I'd heard that there's some type of fan that tends to start squeaking on a Cobalt, but I can't remember specifically which one it's supposd to be...possibly something on the AC? but even when the AC is off I hear it. That being said, I'm not sure if it's the same exact component as the Cobalt would have...so I'm flying blind. I researched the damn car for 6 months before buying it, but this little foible escaped my extensive research and inspection....
I hope the replacement of the wheel will get this taken care of.
Michelle, Chevrolet Customer Service
Deceased
Joined: 06-30-2010
Posts: 25,739
From: Kannapolis NC
True Don, very true, it would be worth it for the OP to scoot under and check around the pump for leakage which can sometimes accompany a wonky pump bearing. Honestly I don't know if HHR water pumps have a weep hole as a telltale for when the bearings or seals start to let go.
Senior Member
Joined: 04-22-2009
Posts: 763
From: Southern California
I'm kind of in agreement with an idler pulley or the belt tensioner. Using a stethescope to pinpoint the source is a good idea. Of course all these long distance diagnostics are only guesses and suggestions.