Squealing in gear while idling
 

Hey all!

First time poster and have owned my HHR for a cpl years now. I'm still learning it's quirks.
This just started this morning on my way to work, the engine started making a high pitch squeal while in traffic. It only squeals when in gear and idle - not while accelerating, driving, slow driving, idling in park.

I assume the belt is going to be replaced but am very curious about the idler pulley. Is it it's own part (which is cheap to replace) or is it all one part as the bent tensioner? (not so cheap)

I have a 2009 HHR, 2.2L in case it matters. I'm probably jumping the gun since I haven't been able to diagnose it yet but I like to plan ahead as much as possible. 20$ and a chill hour is much better than 90$ and a rough afternoon.

Thanks! :twothumbs:

No idler, just a tensioner. Not too expensive, can be a DIY.

1.2 hours flate rate, MSRP $107. Part number 24430296.

Much cheaper online. New Belt Tensioner Assembly Fit Buick Verano Chevrolet Equinox GMC Terrain 38177 | eBay

You can get just the pulley for about the same price and more labor.

Now curious, is it possible to remove and place the idler pulley on the tensioner? Or is it one piece/part?

Like I indicated; it is possible to replace the pulley only, but it will only save about $2 in parts and cost the same in labor (if not more).

Pulley only runs about $20, the assembly can be had for about $22. About 10-20 minutes more labor time.

One bolt for the assembly, two for the pulley.

I vote for replacing the assembly. You can do whatever you want, but if the bearing wore out don't you suspect the spring might?

Splurge

Serpentine Belt Tensioner & Pulley for Chevy Cobalt HHR Pontiac Saab 2.0 2.2 2.4 | eBay