I started getting a loud grinding & squeling noise from one of the top cam pulleys and the cam belt seems to be moving slightly sideways when engine starts. does it need new cam belt kit or is it more serious. its a 1.4 16v 2004 with 35000 only on clock.

carl taylor, June 2009

cam pulleys dont usually give problems unless its loose? most likely tensioner, or roller, or water pump siezing or breaking up. need to time up, and remove belt. it should be obvious which one is faulty when belt removed. (most likely tensioner especially if belt starting to shred). can get full kit for piece of mind. i wouldnt run it anymore in case belt snaps and ruins your engine.

me, June 2009