Ford Escape engine noise and belt squeal due to faulty tensioner pulley replacement needed on Ford Escape

Some Ford Escape owners report experiencing engine noise and belt squeal, particularly when turning on the AC, which may indicate a faulty tensioner pulley. This issue can lead to the serpentine belt slipping or breaking, resulting in costly engine damage. Additionally, a high-pitched serpentine belt squeal often signals a loose, worn, or misaligned belt that requires adjustment, cleaning, or replacement to prevent further engine complications. Owners may also notice screeching noises during cold starts, potentially caused by alternator load, a loose tensioner, or a worn belt. Other contributing factors to the squealing noise can include a bad tensioner, stuck or bad idler pulleys, exposure to coolant, or cold weather conditions. It is recommended that owners have the tensioner pulley inspected by a mechanic promptly to avoid exacerbating engine issues.