Ford Focus 2000

[DEN53]

When my son starts his engine - there is a high pitch screeching sound, it lasts for a second or two then disappears.

Any ideas ?

[Toureman]

Likely to be the auxilary belt as the Focus has an electric fan

[Nkakamasembe]

Technically its now referred to as a ribbed belt or serpentine belt. I am from the old school and will always call it a fan belt. even if the fan is in the boot.

[jefp1938]

Squirt the belt with some WD40, if that quietens it you should replace the belt as soon as it's feasable as it's worn.

[razza]

Do not squirt the belt with WD40 it will stop it squealing because it wont work at all.The pulley will keep going round without taking the belt with it.However there is a product on the market that can be squirted on to it,I forget what it is called but it puts more grip on to the belt.

[tonyav]

A drop of water will make the belt go quiet for a short time.

[DEN53]

Thanks for all your answers - the fan belt was adjusted when he bought the car (August) but within a week it started screeching again. I recently took it to the garage for him to have front break discs and pads replaced - I mentioned it to the mechanic, he said it was getting stuck now and again and this was a fault on a Focus.

Tony - my old Dad said put a few drops of water on the belt to quieten it aswell.