Car squeals/high-pitched whine upon startup in the morning, goes on while I drive -straight/turns- for about a minute then stops (when the engine is warm?).

If I idle the car on startup and turn on the AC- squealing begins and stops as soon as I turn off the AC.

When I start up the car at night, there is no squealing.

Is this a problem with my A/C belt? If so, how should I fix- tighten/replace?

I have had this problem on and off since this past winter, it has not gotten to the point where it will happen every day. Thanks for any help/advice. Videos/Guides appreciated.

 

yeah you might want to replace the belt and if you have not changed it ever since you got the car then it might be about that time to change it

 

Probably the alternator belt. Try tightening it first. When the car is first started, the alternator works hard to recharge the battery from what the starter used. When you turn the A/C on there is an increase in electrical load from the fans and the clutch coil so the alternator has to pull harder too.

 

Just to be certain, we're talking about the AC belt here?

Also, does that also mean I should replace my car battery? Thanks.

 

What kind of Engine is this? 1.7L 4Cyl?

 

replace your AC belt and alternator belt, they're probably due for replacement anyways. only about $20 a belt ish?

that is the D17. not sure if it's the vtec edition or not.

 

Would you recommend buying from the dealer or from an auto parts store (ie Pep Boys)?

What is a D17? Does that affect what belts I need?
Stores like to know what engine I have when I ask for parts and I'm not quite sure what to tell them.

 

Can't really see too well in the picture, but it says VTEC underneath the Honda on the engine. Is it the D17A2? Does that affect the belts I need?

 

Since it's an EX the D17A2 is the stock engine. Other than the intake, everything under the hood looks to be stock. Belts should be the same as the DX and LX but if there's any doubt tell the parts store it's a 1.7 liter VTEC.

 

I went to the dealer and in terms of accessory belts, they sell (for 2004 Honda Civic 1.7L EX) Power Steering belt and Compressor belt. I bought the Compressor belt. Do I need to replace the Power Steering belt as well? Many thanks.