* Serpentine belt: The serpentine belt is a long, thin belt that wraps around several pulleys on the front of your engine. It powers the AC compressor, water pump, and alternator. If the serpentine belt is loose or worn, it can squeal when the AC is turned on.
* AC compressor: The AC compressor is the heart of the AC system. It compresses the refrigerant gas and sends it to the condenser. If the AC compressor is low on refrigerant, it can squeal when it's turned on.
* Idler pulley: The idler pulley is a small pulley that helps to keep the serpentine belt in place. If the idler pulley is worn or damaged, it can squeal when the AC is turned on.
* Tensioner pulley: The tensioner pulley is a spring-loaded pulley that helps to keep the serpentine belt tight. If the tensioner pulley is weak or damaged, it can't keep the belt tight enough, which can cause the belt to squeal when the AC is turned on.
If you're hearing a squealing sound when you turn on the AC in your 1996 Dodge Neon, it's important to have it checked out by a mechanic as soon as possible. If the problem is left unresolved, it could damage the AC compressor or other components of the AC system.
