Solutions for a Grinding Engine Noise When in Park Gear on a 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Grinding noises are never a good thing when you are dealing with an engine. There are some very general things that can be happening when this sound is coming out of your engine. When you hear this, make a note in your mind where the sound seems to be coming from to help you pinpoint it.
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Alternator
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Examine the alternator while the engine is running. Do not touch it, but listen to the alternator. It is on the left side of the engine and it is located on the top left. it will make a grinding noise if it is in the process of breaking away from its axle. You will be able to see the wheel on the pulley actually spinning and banging.
Serpentine Belt
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Located on the front of the engine and controlling the air conditioning system, alternator, cooling fan and power steering systems the serpentine is a rubber belt. As it breaks apart it will begin to rub the metal pulleys on these systems, creating a high-pitched grinding sound. The best way to locate this problem is by examining the belt when it is turned off. If the belt is worn it will need to be replaced.
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Air Conditioning Unit Going Out
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When the air conditioning condenser is beginning to go out it will begin to grind. Since it is connected to the serpentine belt, it will suffer from problems that may have been related to the belt. If the air conditioning unit does begin to go out you will hear a low grinding sound that gets more noticeable when you rev the engine or start the system.
Internal Engine Problems
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This is the worst case scenario. If you are getting a grinding sound and there is blue smoke coming out of the vehicle you have either thrown a push rod, cracked a cylinder or dropped a lifter. If this is the case, immediately stop the engine and locate a trained professional. Do not attempt to start or drive the car since any movement of damaged parts can cause even more damage to the engine block.
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