Drive Belt Idler Pulley Replacement Cost Estimate
The average cost for a Drive Belt Idler Pulley Replacement is between $172 and $244.
- Labor costs are estimated between $93 and $136 while parts are priced between $80 and $108.
- This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
- For a more accurate estimate based on your location, use our Fair Price Estimator below.
Drive Belt Idler Pulley Replacement
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How are drive belt idler pulley issues diagnosed?
If the pulley is making sufficient noise to be suspected, it will be physically inspected to verify the diagnosis. The drive belt will be relieved of tension, and the pulley turned by hand to feel for vibration, resistance, grinding, or looseness. If any of those symptoms are noted, it will be replaced.
How is a drive belt idler pulley replaced?
When replacing a drive belt idler pulley, the remaining parts of the pulley system will be inspected to ensure they are free from defects that will lead to damage of the new belt or idler pulley. If there are no defects, the belt tension will be released, and tightened once the new idler pulley and belt are in place. Proper belt tension is mandatory to prevent belt failure.
RepairPal Recommendations for drive belt idler pulley issues
When one drive belt component fails, it is typical to notice the others in need of replacement as well. The belts should all be removed and inspected, as cracking or fraying may be hard to detect while on the vehicle. While the belts are removed, the idler pulleys and belt tensioners should be inspected and replaced if faulty. If the drive belt is broken or missing, all pulleys and components for that belt should be inspected for proper alignment and functionality.
What to look out for when dealing with drive belt idler pulley issues
There are many manufacturers of drive belt idler pulleys. They tend to range in price, but they are not typically expensive. Higher quality belts and pulleys may last longer, run more quietly, and resist breaking. At a minimum, all replacement parts should be OEM grade or better.
Can I replace the drive belt idler pulley myself?
The novice DIYer would be perfectly comfortable replacing an idler pulley, but a torque wrench with small enough increments must be used to avoid damaging the engine accessory mounting bracket, or timing belt cover, whichever the particular vehicle uses. If a torque wrench is unavailable, do not attempt this repair, as the damage caused by over-tightening, or under-tightening can be very costly.
Drive Belt Idler Pulley Replacement Cost Estimates
The average cost for a Drive Belt Idler Pulley Replacement is between $172 and $244 but can vary from car to car.
