QuestionQUESTION: The engine makes a squealing noise that sounds like gerbils on a wheel that I sometimes notice when idling. I have only noticed the noise when warmed up and not all the time. It seems to be coming from the driver's side. Any idea what could cause this, what will happen if I do not repair it and the rough cost to repair. Thanks.
ANSWER: What kind of vehicle is this, and if varied. what engine is equiped?
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QUESTION: The car is a 01 Mercury Sable GS 3.0 V6 with 75,000 miles. Thanks again.
ANSWER: hey again. i figured it might be that or a taurus. I own a 2003 taurus that had the exact same problem. and it is a typical issue with these 3.0 liter engines. There is a spot that they used to use a distributor on the right hand side, but now they use something called a syncronizer. the bearings in this where out and give off that annoing noise that you hear. unfortunatly its not something that you can let go for to long, you should also replace the sensor on the top of that, I dont rember how much my parts where, but expect to pay at least 500-700 dollars for this repair, there is a special tool involved in the replacement of this part, and wrong installation will cause problems. so i recomend that the dealership do this. good luck
Chris P
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QUESTION: Thank you for your very prompt reply. Money is tight right now. I drive about 6-700 miles per month, mostly local. What might happen if I put off the repair for 6 months or so. I await your further reply. Thank you.
AnswerI have heard this noise go for some time. If the noise gets alot worse then you may have to cough it up. but if you dont hear a bad grinding noise leave it untill you do, this drives your oil pump. so if it does fail. you will lose oil pressure and destroy your engine. but i rarely see it get to that point. Do it as soon as you can. good luck
Chris P
