The serpentine belt is a long, snake-like belt under the hood that transports the power necessary to run your vehicle's accessories, like your alternator, power steering pump, water pump, A/C compressor, and more. Sometimes, it can be referred to as the accessory belt or fan belt. The serpentine belt typically has a v-shaped ribbing that runs vertically, and you can find it on the crankshaft outside the engine.
Because the serpentine belt is made of rubber, it will age over time and need replacing. A serpentine belt should not be a part you wait to break before giving it attention. Otherwise, it can severely damage the engine and surrounding parts. If the serpentine belt shows signs of wear and tear, it would be wise to ask your mechanic when you should replace it.
Some of the signs of wear and tear for a serpentine belt include:
- Physical evidence (fraying, glazing, cracking, tearing, etc.)
- Dim or faint vehicle lighting
- A dashboard warning light comes on
- Performance loss (battery drainage, power steering problems, engine stalling, etc.)
- You hear unusual squealing or chirping under the hood
Your serpentine belt should last you around 60,000–100,000 miles, depending on your vehicle's make or model. You should always follow your manufacturer's maintenance schedule to know when exactly you should change this belt.
If you notice any warning signs of a worn serpentine belt, it is crucial to bring your vehicle to our Burbank auto repair shop for an inspection. Our certified technicians assess whether you should replace it right away and if so, we can take care of it promptly so that you can get back on the road.
For all your automotive needs, including a belt replacement, please bring your car to Future Auto Service today.