Hi just purchased a 2012 TL with 112k miles. Car was single owner and great condition.

Immediately after purchasing, I did have a mechanic replaced timing belt, water pump, tensioner, pulley. Also replaced the serpentine/accessory belt (don't know if the tensioner for serpentine belt was replaced). The alternator was also replaced.

The car has pretty load chirping and rhythmic squeaking at cold start, which seems belt related. After a minute the noise fades to barely noticeable.

Here's a link to a recording a cold start up: Recording

It doesn't sound like the slapping/knocking that I've heard for timing belt issue.

Did my mechanic screw up the timing belt job? I inspected the serpentine belt and it's tight.

I'm a little suspect of my mechanic at this point so want to be armed with any thoughts or info of what to check before I have him inspect the car again. Appreciate it!!

 

with age/time usually the oil pump starts leaking oil and it can get on the crank pulley or be slung upwards onto the accessory belt. Same with the oil filter housing gasket going bad (where the housing connects to the engine block where you screw the oil filter on).

I'd check first for any leaks that might be causing the issue.

Also, was the accessory belt tensioner and idler also replaced?

 

Not sure if accessory built tensioner and pulley were replaced, I don't think so.

I will check on oil leaks, get under the car and let you know what I find.