AZP-TL

The check engine light came on a couple days ago, I only happened to notice as I looked down at the dash when I got home. Nothing sounded odd and there was no noticable difference in the ride or how the car performed. Yesterday the engine (sounds like the belt area) started making a fairly loud squeaking sound.

Now I'm affraid to drive it to the dealer, particularly since they are so far from me. Anyone have any idea what it could be?

fsttyms1

Well first thing to ask, is it one of the belts. Narrow down the sound.

2nd drive the car to a auto parts store and have them diagnose the code. Most do it for free.

AZP-TL

Took it to Checker, the codes are P0420 and P1739 which I believe are the catalytic converter and o2 sensor?

The squeaking appears to be coming from a belt redirector wheel.

01tl4tl

belt redirector---thats a good one~
the AC belt tensioner possibly?- the big one near the front passenger side of the engine?
Mine went bad about 45k and went out completly at 79k miles
part was about 85 and 1.5 hr labor- a skilled person can do it faster

01tl4tl

whats the cars total miles?- ever change the spark plugs and run seafoam thru it?

fsttyms1

Id take the car to the dealer. The 1739 is a trans code. (Problem in 3rd Clutch Pressure Switch Circuit)

AZP-TL

Yes, tensioner was what I was looking for. It's the small one closest to the alternator.

It has just over 70,000 miles. I have not changed the spark plugs or run seafoam but I've only had it for a little over a year and it hasn't given me a single problem up to this point.

01tl4tl

70k miles- are you clean title??- not salvage or rebuilt, and what year TL

You are right on mileage schedule for a trans problem- if that makes you feel better
- and it should be warranty covered for you
Read the Tranny Failure thread for details

AZP-TL

Tranny failures seem to be all over the place in terms of mileage from what I've seen. Besides, I haven't experienced any of the common tranny failure signs and the car still runs great.

It is a rebuilt title but I had my mechanic inspect it before I bought it and he said the engine and frame were in very good condition. It looks like it was hit in the front driver side fender but had minimal damage. It is a 2000.

Gfaze

Well the warranty just flew out the window! Your car is officially from any warranty work from Acura. All you can do is pray.

01tl4tl

If you have a mechanics stethascope or a long screwdriver you can place it against the back of that pulley-tensioner with the engine running and listen for the sound of a heavy metal band beat

Yes these trans last anywhere from 50k to 150k++, luck of the draw

AZP-TL

I wouldn't be so sure. The dealer replaced a part under warranty just recently that was throwing up the SRS warning light and like I said, the car is in very good condition aside from a bad paint job.

01tl4tl

that is amazing they replaced the SRS part- yes it has a 10 year 150k special warranty
BUT once a car has been declared TOTALLED then rebuilt and resold- Acura disavows any knowledge of the cars existance.
Maybe you got lucky and they didnt run the VIN first- or the manager used another cars VIN to help you out with a SAFETY issue getting repaired

fsttyms1

Thats because the SRS component was a recall. that doesnt matter if it salvaged or not. Our trans only have the recall for the oiljet. If it needs to be replaced thats going to be on his dime as "warranty" work doesnt have to be covered due to the salvaged title.

01tl4tl

The Master knows all

AZP-TL

It wasn't totaled and can we get back on topic.