Auto Repair Encyclopedia
Fan/Drive Belt Replacement
Sometimes referred to as Drive Belts, Drive Belt, Belts, Belt, Serpentine Belt, Serpentine Belts, Replace Serpentine Belt, Replace Serpentine Belts, Serpentine Belt Replace, Serpentine Belts Replace, Replace Drive Belt, Replace Drive Belts, Drive Belt Replace, Drive Belts Replace, V Belts, Accessory Drive Belt, Accessory Belt
The engine drives fan/drive belts to power components such as the alternator, AC compressor, power steering pump, and engine cooling fans.
Drive belts are made of rubber and wear out over time, especially if they come into contact with oil.
Periodic inspection is necessary to determine if drive belts need to be replaced; many manufacturers have set specific replacement intervals. If one drive belt is worn or has failed, the remaining drive belts should also be replaced. Often, drive belts are overlooked until they fail; inspection and maintenance can prevent roadside breakdowns.
Drive belts rotate when the engine is running. Follow safety precautions to avoid personal injury.
To replace the drive belts, loosen the hardware securing engine-mounted accessories, adjusting brackets, and tensioners. Remove the old drive belts and install and adjust the new drive belts.
About this Repair: Drive Belt(s) Replacement
Recommendations
Drive belts crack and become glazed over time and can squeak or even break. For optimal performance and reliability they should be replaced at the recommended interval by the manufacturer.
We recommend replacing drive belts if related components are being repaired and the belts have signs of wear or over 30,000 miles on them.
We recommend replacing all the drive belts as a set, so that they wear evenly.
Why this happens
High-quality drive belts are less likely to squeak and prematurely fail.
Leaking valve cover gaskets can cause premature drive belt failure. Engine oil will damage even a new belt.
