Rep Power: 0

I got an 04 civic with about 335k mikes on it. Belt squeals quite a bit. If I turn off all electronics, especially the defroster or headlights it’ll stop most of the time. The belt tensioner is as tight as it’ll go.

Does this sound like a bad alternator or ac compressor? I’m thinking the belt is sliding over a stubborn pulley. Thoughts?

 
Rep Power: 210

Does it squeal all the time or only when the ac compressor is engaged? Overtightened belt tension can cause ac compressor or alternator early failure.

 
Rep Power: 222

Alternator belt might be stretched out, try a new one and retension, make sure the alternator bolts are tight

 
Rep Power: 0

it used to only squeal when it was engaged but now it’s doing it more, especially when it’s really cold or when it’s wet outside. I’ve had the car since it was new and it has the original ac compressor and I can’t remember if I’ve changed the alternator ever. When I run the defroster it squeals so I suspect it’s the ac compressor but I don’t run the actual ac because it has a leak and doesn’t blow cold air. I realize I can damage the pulleys by cranking down the tensioner but I just want it to stop. I’m wondering if this is going to be a winter project and have to replace the ac compressor and alternator.

 
Rep Power: 518

wait, what?
Youre gonna waste a ton of money. Your problem is just the belt.