Symptom Chart

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mazda 6. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

DRIVE BELT SYMPTOM

Condition	Possible Source	Action
Drive belt cracking	Front and water pump drive belt.	Replace drive belt. (See DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT )
Drive belt chunking	Front and water pump drive belt.	Replace drive belt. (See DRIVE BELT REPLACEMENT )
Drive belt noise or squeal	Front and water pump drive belt. Pulley(s).	Determine what area of pulley(s) noise is coming from, then check that area with straight edge and see if each pulley is out of position in fore or aft direction, or at an angle to the straight edge.
Drive belt does not hold tension (See FRONT DRIVE BELT )	Front and water pump drive belt cracking or damaged.	Inspect drive belt for cracking parallel with and through to the backing. Replace drive belt if necessary. Check drive belt tensioner for damage and correct operation. Replace drive belt auto tensioner if necessary.
Drive belt squeal or chirp	Incorrect front and water pump drive belt installed. Lubricant or other contamination on front and water pump drive belt. Each pulley not aligned properly, damaged or not rotating freely.	Check drive belt for correct part application. Check drive belt for oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid or other contamination. Remove drive belt and wash with detergent and water. If drive belt cannot be cleaned or is damaged (softened) by contamination, replace drive belt. Check each pulley for proper alignment, pulleys and related parts for proper freedom of rotation and damage. Repair pulleys and related parts if necessary.

NOTE:

Front and water pump drive belt deflection/tension inspection is not necessary because of the use of the drive belt auto tensioner.