transmission/clutch/engine squeal?

[victor_t]

hello,
concerning a 2007 2.0L 5 speed:

I noticed something (else) today and I'm wondering if it's normal.

I was coming to a light on a hill and I pushed the clutch in to slow down, but then the light turned green so I didn't downshift. I kept the car in 3rd gear and accelerated. So the car was going uphill at somewhat lower speed in 3rd and didn't have much power (I guess I should have been in 2nd gear). so as I was giving it more gas, I heard a faint squeal coming from the front of the car. it seems to be coming from the left side (but I could be wrong).
Then I noticed it a couple of more times. Clutch was fully engaged all thse times.

under normal start conditions (1st to 2nd to 3rd etc, with normal acceleration) I don't hear any noise. but on harder acceleration, especially when the gear is higher than it should be (4th instead of 3rd for example), I hear this faint squeal (kind of like the noise you'd get from old belts in winter, but very faint)

when I heard it again, I looked at the engine RPM and it was normal (I dont remember exact numbers, but not too high, max 3500. I was concerned that the clutch was slipping)

Did anyone else notice something like this? What could it be coming from?

[Gizzmo_jr]

Well since you've got a 2007, I assume your mileage isn't that high. So a slipping clutch I doubt. Perhaps under engine load, your belt tensioner is showing signs of issues. I've read that they can wear out at anytime it seems. The bearing fails on it.
Only under load you hear the squeal?

[victor_t]

yes, I've only heard it a few times (I think 3) and it's always when trying to accelerate the car harder without downshifting.

so, belt tensioner, or maybe serpentine belt.

is this covered under the normal 3 year mazda warranty? if not, I have a 3 month warranty from the dealer I got it from.

[Gizzmo_jr]

As I've understood, yes the tensioner is under warranty. If you go in to get the car looked at, ask them to rule out the tensioner or not.