The timing belt tensioner pulley may make a squealing noise from the timing cover area on cold startup. An updated tensioner with a thicker mounting bracket to eliminate vibration may be needed to solve the problem.
Car Problem Reports
Mazda Protege Squealing In Timing Cover Area When Cold
Mazda Protege Problem
21 Reports
Model Years Affected: 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Engines Affected: 1.5L 4 Cylinder, 1.6L 4 Cylinder, 1.8L 4 Cylinder, 2.0L 4 Cylinder
Average Mileage: 154,841 mi (103,887 mi - 250,000 mi)
Verified
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Visitor, 1999 Mazda Protege, 1.6L 4 Cylinder, 190,000 mi
Oil leak suspected in wearing down / loosing alternator belt, eventually breaking altogether.
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Visitor, 1996 Mazda Protege, 1.5L 4 Cylinder, 130,000 mi
My car usually squeals during a cold startup. I just replaced the belts and the squealing persists. From reading this, I am now suspecting that its the timing belt.
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Visitor, 1999 Mazda Protege, 1.6L 4 Cylinder, 250,000 mi
A couple of times I have had to replace the belt.
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