A couple weeks ago my brother's '97 Civic DX started making really loud noises when it idles and when you accelerate. It sounds something like a remote control car (seriously).

When we pop the hood, we can see where the problem is, but we have no idea how to fix it. Towards the front right of the engine, there is either a fan or a pulley that spins with a small belt on it. Its extremely loud and has a somewhat metal on metal sound.

We're planning on taking the car in to be looked at, but I was wondering if anyone knew what it might be. Not being technical, if the mechanic said anything and ripped me off I would probably be a sucker for it.

I'm wondering if the thing just needs to be greased or something. Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

Michael