The main dealer has told me that this noise is coming from the V belt. Now to me that sounds like the fan best - could someone enlighten me here. Also they are suggesting I also have the tensioner changed - at a total cost of £140 plus vat for the parts. Can one of you experts please advise me whether it is mandatory to change the tensioner when changing the V belt or if indeed I need to change anything at all and there is a way of adjusting the tension of the current belt???
Brian WH
MB Enthusiast
Herbie said:
Yes the V belt is the fan belt.
Depends how old the car is, mileage etc. But a good idea if say 100k ish, as the tensioner will be tired and will not last till the next belt change. If it goes it will cost you a new engine.
Moving to engine section.
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Thanks Brian - the car has done 47k miles and is a later 2001 model and I only get the noise sometimes. The main dealers have told me it's nothing to worry about but your post suggests bigger problems if it goes - when you say this do you mean if the belt breaks? PS. I notice you are in the East Midlands - do you use a main dealer or a local specialist maybe you're lucky and skilled to do all the work yourself. If you use someone could you let me know who please?
Brian WH
MB Enthusiast
Herbie said:
A noise "sometimes" means it is slipping and on its way out, and will need changing say at the next service, if that is not too far off. If the tensioner, goes or the belt breaks the engine will suffer damage, so worth changing them if they are suspect mate.
I use Derby Dealers for my car. I can fully recommend Mertrux of Derby and MB Derby they are both excellent. I used to do my own repairs but the modern MB needs specialist tools and equipment, so I don't bother. Also my recent cars have been new and under warranty.
