Mazda Repair: 2001 626 making a squealing noise, power steering pump, ac compressor

Question
Hey,

I just recently purchased a used 2001 626 and it started making a squealing noise.  It seems to only be when the car is idling and worse when it is cold and when the AC is running.  It sounds like it may be a belt getting ready to go out.  Any idea of what the issue could be and what will need to be done to fix it?

Answer
It is either a loose belt, a worn out belt, or a bad ancillary component (ac compressor, power steering pump, alternator, etc.) . I would check the condition of your ac belt. If it is in good shape, try tightening the belt. Do not get too carried away tighetening it. If the belt gets too tight, it can wear out ancillary component bearings. If tighetening does not work, then try replacing the belt. If a belt replacement does not work, make sure that all of the pulleys are free of oil and turn freely. If any of the pulleys have oil on them, find the leak and repair it. If any of the pulleys are harder to turn than they should be, then that ancillary component should probably be replaced.