99 honda civic, makes a loud screeeech sort of noise when its cold or it seems at night?

i think its the alternator belt but im not sure, how can i tell if it needs to be replaced? theres three belts because i have a/c any ideas on how much im looking at to replace all three belts myself, i live in canada

99 honda civic, makes a loud screeeech sort of noise when its cold or it seems at night?
Sounds like your belt is slipping on the pully (s). Best thing to do is to check all belts for tightness. You can do this by pressing on the belt between two pulleys. It should not easily be pressed more than 1/4 to 1/2 inch. If you can press it down more than 1/2" then it is too loose. You may have a belt tensioner ( a spring-loaded pulley to auto adjust the tension on the alternator belt (which is most likely the belt that is slipping) You can try belt dressing, but your best bet is to replce the belt (s) that are squealing. Any belt that has a glazed appearnace or is shiny should be replaced. Clean the pulleys off with either isopropyl alcohol or soap and water first to remove any residue on the metal. The belts may cost around $20 each.
Reply:Call your local auto parts distributor for prices.
Reply:It's your alternator belt. Does it do it when you have the lights, A/C or other big loads turned on?
Reply:belts are loose...if they are cracked or dry-rotted, replace them...roughly $30 usd per belt....plus labor if you have someone install them...
Reply:does the screeching sound go away after a min or so? if so its the belts. try spraying a little belt dressing on them and if that doesnt help then you just need to replace them. worst case its a pully. good luck! hope that helps.
Reply:Are the belts tight!


Also, your battery could be going bad and your alternator is charging excessively when first started after setting over time.