Like many automotive parts, a serpentine belt is easy to take for granted while it’s working. A damaged serpentine belt, unfortunately, can cause a number of essential systems to stop working, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on your belt and know the warning signs of a bad serpentine belt. Use these steps to quickly replace this component and keep your car maintained and traveling safely.
A serpentine belt is also known as an accessory belt or fan belt. It’s looped around multiple accessories and is powered by the crankshaft pulley. Older vehicles used to have multiple belts to power individual items, but modern cars typically use a single belt to power these and other systems:
Older serpentine belts used tensioners that were difficult to adjust. Modern tensioners and pulleys are much easier to work with, making replacement an easy DIY maintenance task. Learn how to replace a serpentine belt today to save money on routine maintenance. All you need is a new belt and a belt tensioner tool.
Ideally, you’ll replace a belt before it snaps. A damaged belt is likely to have fallen off one or more pulleys, making it difficult to determine the layout. Most vehicles have a diagram of the correct serpentine belt placement. Look for this diagram in your owner’s manual or under your hood. Even if your old belt is still in place, it’s a helpful guide.
Carefully release tension by loosening the tensioner with your tensioner tool. Remove the belt, being careful not to damage any pulleys or guides. Inspect the belt and all the pulleys for signs of damage. You’re looking for oil or unusual wear marks on the belt, as well as any sticking pulleys. Address these issues, or your new belt may not last its expected lifespan.
Wind the new serpentine belt around all the pulleys in the exact same way. Be sure to wind it around the idler pulleys as well. Tighten the tensioner to keep the belt moving and powering all the essential items. Fire up your engine and inspect your work to be sure the belt is moving smoothly, turning all the pulleys and operating without unusual sounds.
The most common warning sign of a bad belt is a squealing sound while your engine is running. Squealing could be caused by either a serpentine or drive belt, so inspect these belts carefully for signs of wear or sticking pulleys. The belt may also show signs of fraying or splitting, which are common signs that it’s time for a new one.Shop for a new serpentine belt and other auto parts online to prepare for a convenient auto maintenance task. Monitor your belt closely and replace it at the first signs of wear, rather than waiting for it to snap. Visit a local store or online store to enjoy great prices on the exact size and dimensions of belt you need for your specific vehicle.
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