Can you replace a serpentine belt yourself?
Serpentine belt replacement is easy because today’s automatic drive belt tensioners eliminate the need to loosen bolts or pry components into position for retensioning. Just rotate the tensioner, remove the old belt and install a new one.
How many years will a serpentine belt last?
Serpentine belts are built to last—much longer than before because of advancements in rubber technology. Under ideal conditions, a belt should stick with you for an average of 60,000 to 100,000 miles.
Can an old serpentine belt cause loss of power?
If the serpentine belt completely fails and breaks, then your car will break down. In addition, you will notice a loss of power steering, the air conditioning will not work, and the engine will no longer be able to be cooled like it should be.
What does a bad serpentine belt sound like?
Think you might have a bad serpentine belt? A telltale sign is that the engine squealing comes from the front of the vehicle and that it persists. Belt squeaking is also especially pronounced when accelerating, on startup, and when making a U-turn. The noise is loud and sounds like a squeal, loud chirp, or squeak.
What happens when the serpentine belt breaks while driving?
The serpentine belt is also known as an alternator belt, fan belt, or accessory drive belt. If your serpentine belt wears out, becomes damaged or contaminated, or breaks, engine accessories will not be able to spin at the proper speed, leading to decreased power to the electrical system.
What causes a serpentine belt to break?
Serpentine belts can fail in a few different ways. This is usually the result of a belt in poor condition, or a problem with one of the accessory components being driven by the belt. A failed bearing in a pulley being driven by the serpentine belt will also cause the belt to break.
Can a bad serpentine belt cause acceleration problems?
Typically a damaged belt tensioner will not impact vehicle performance. It would cause the serpentine or drive belt to wear prematurely or to squeak – but not cause the acceleration issue.
What damage can a broken serpentine belt cause?
A broken serpentine belt stops the water pump from circulating coolant (antifreeze) through the cooling system, and the engine can overheat – anywhere! A broken serpentine belt stops the alternator from generating power to operate the vehicle’s electric (and electronic) systems and recharge the battery.
How much does it cost to replace a pulley and serpentine belt?
Serpentine Belt Replacement Cost – RepairPal Estimate. The average cost for serpentine belt replacement is between $112 and $126. Labor costs are estimated between $54 and $68 while parts are priced at $58.