Squeaky underhood

[JBlack16]

Hey, I just got my EGR Valve replaced and had them look at this squeaky noise which is by the serpentine belt. So i have them look at it and they tell me that it is the Alternator bearing and the belt tensioner making this noise. Well they tore it all down to narrow down on what it was making the noise. They put it back together because i want to wait. Now it doesnt make the noise anymore, well not yet. Maybe a bolt was loose or something and needed tightened back up when they put to back together so I am hoping that fixed the problem but does that sound like a logical thing Alternator Bearing and Belt tensioner. It being a dealer mabe there trying to screw a little young fella over like me and buy their crap they pull. He said I would need a new alternator which is GM and would cost 421 and the belt tensioner 120. Is their anyway to test my self this the cause that is makign the noise. So I dk, let me know.

[rixGAphx]

They tore WHAT 'all down', and then put it together?
Mechanics and dealers are loathe to 'tear into' something, only to be told 'don't bother to replac it, button it all back together again.'
It really isn't fair to them for you as a customer to do that.

The alternator only takes about 20 minutes to R&R, but that damned tensioner assembly takes about an hour each way even with the special wrench.

In any case, those prices are 'in line' with what a dealer charges for ACDelco parts and dealer labor rates.
Which means they 1.5 to 2 times more than a reputable shop.

And ANY dealer or shop should be expected to tell you which component is making noise, and to only replace that one (unless the other is ALSO noisy).
* * *

You can replace the alternator yourself with a quality rebuilt Delco unit through NAPA for about $120, takes 1 hour the first time DIY with normal handtools.

The tensioner assembly is a PITA to replace, very little room to work and a special $20 wrench is required; a new tensioner costs whatever NAPA wants, just go on-line and see.

Good luck,
-Rick

As to what is the actual source of the noise?
Could be either of those; *might* have been caused by a loose mounting bolt on the tensioner but I doubt it.
The proper diagnosis is to use a mechanic's stethoscope to listen carefully for the actual source of the noise.

When one of those lets go, it will take-out the serpentine belt and basically leave you stranded.
If this will be an inconvenience, then don't wait for actual destruction; take the car to a reputable shop (non-GM dealer) and get their advice when it starts making noise again (which it will, sooner or later).

[JBlack16]

well they took of the serpentine belt and put it back on since i didnt wanna replace. Rick you must have worked in a shop because you are very knowledgable on these cars. So you are saying I should replace them correct. They told me the alternator had a lifetime gurantee on it so idk mabe thats y its so pricey.later

[kyboman]

My squeak was the alternator. The good news is you have time before the bearing will finally die. My nephew lost the tensioner bearing. When this bearing froze-up, it shreaded the serpentine belt. It only takes a few minutes to remove the belt and turn both items to find the culprit. If it is barely squeaking now, you have some time.