Hi Everyone,

I have a 02 Protege, and recently i have been hearing a squealing noise when I first start the car. I had at inspected at an independent garage and they said it is the AC compressor and when the defrost is engaged it squeaks. The noise goes away after a bit but still should not be the anyway. I guess my question really is is this a common issue.

Thanks in advance for any help or advice,

Nick

Yes, it is fairly common. Most likely a loose A/C belt. Also, it could be a loose alternator belt if it turns out that A/C belt is not the cause.