Check the Pulleys, accessories and idlers for bad bearings

 

Hello , I have a 2008 Suzuki Swift 1.5 petrol with 140.000 miles For the last few months, there was a loud squealing sound when I started the car that only lasted for a second or two. Took the car to the garage and they said it was the belts Changed both serpentine and drive belts but the problem is that now the sound lasts much longer (to the point that it is embarrassing driving the car because of the noise) Went back to the garage, they tightened the belts but the sound returned after a couple of days Now the garage says that it is probably the AC compressor Another thing that I noticed is that lately, the steering wheel has become much heavier Does anyone have any ideas about what the problem could be? Thanks

did you ever find out what caused this. I have the exact same car with the exact same problem. Multiple mechanics can’t figure it out and fix it.

 

So when you notice heavy steering, things are simple, you have resistance to assistance.To blame: if the assistance is electric, the generator. and if it is mechanical, then the power steering pump is to blame. Look at these two simple things... Here we are again... George.

 

Check all idler pulleys, and bearings. 90% of this is a bearing going bad, but in saying that,
This can also be symptomatic of an alternator going bad If its lasting longer after starting then goes away. Get a full load check done on the car by an auto electrician ( simple test where they load up the alternator and make it work hard) to prove alternator is ok.
Quick nasty test, start the car agd immediately turn on headlights, and rear window heater, if it keeps squealing its usually the belt slipping.

Try talcum powder on the belt in case there's contamination on the pulleys causing it to slip.