How do I know which serpentine belt to buy?
Choosing the right serpentine belt for your vehicle is crucial for maintaining its performance and avoiding potential breakdowns. The serpentine belt powers essential components like the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to identify and purchase the correct serpentine belt for your car.
What Is a Serpentine Belt?
A serpentine belt is a single, continuous belt that drives multiple peripheral devices in your car's engine. Unlike older systems that used multiple belts, the serpentine belt simplifies the design and improves efficiency. However, because it powers so many components, choosing the right one is essential to ensure proper functionality.
Steps to Identify the Right Serpentine Belt
Follow these steps to determine which serpentine belt is the right fit for your vehicle:
- Check Your Owner’s Manual: The easiest way to find the correct serpentine belt is to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual. It will provide the exact specifications, including the belt size and part number.
- Inspect the Old Belt: If you’re replacing an existing belt, check the part number printed on it. This number can help you find an exact match.
- Know Your Vehicle’s Make, Model, and Year: When shopping for a new belt, you’ll need to provide your car’s make, model, and year to ensure compatibility. Some vehicles may also require additional details, such as the engine size.
- Consider Aftermarket vs. OEM: Decide whether you want an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) belt or an aftermarket option. OEM belts are designed specifically for your vehicle, while aftermarket belts may offer cost savings but require careful selection to ensure quality.
- Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure, visit a trusted auto repair shop like Kevin’s Autos. Our experienced technicians can help you identify the correct belt and even install it for you.
Signs You Need to Replace Your Serpentine Belt
It’s equally important to know when your serpentine belt needs replacement. Here are some common signs:
- Squealing Noise: A high-pitched squeal when starting your car or during operation could indicate a worn or loose belt.
- Cracks or Fraying: Visible damage, such as cracks, fraying, or glazing, is a clear sign that the belt is nearing the end of its life.
- Loss of Functionality: If components like the alternator or power steering stop working, the belt may have failed.
Why Choosing the Right Belt Matters
Using the wrong serpentine belt can lead to improper tension, reduced efficiency, and even damage to your engine components. A properly fitted belt ensures smooth operation and extends the lifespan of your vehicle’s systems.
Need Help? Visit Kevin’s Autos!
At Kevin’s Autos, we’ve been helping drivers maintain their vehicles since 1997. Whether you need assistance selecting the right serpentine belt or require professional installation, our team is here to help. Contact us today or stop by our shop for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you put a serpentine belt on wrong?
If the belt is too tight or too loose, it can wear out prematurely. This is critical to its proper functioning: If it's too loose, it will slip, leading to the underperformance of engine accessories and causing all sorts of problems. If it is too tight can put unnecessary stress causing them to wear out faster.
What belt makes squealing noise?
Squeals and Chirps: The Most Common Serpentine Belt Noises. There are two types of noise that a serpentine belt typically makes. One is the chirp, the other is the squeal. They each are the result of different issues within the front end drive system.
How long do serpentine belts usually last?
50,000 to 100,000 miles
Typically, serpentine belts last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Over time, friction and heat break them down. If you're unsure whether it's time for a serpentine belt replacement, check out the warning signs below, courtesy of the experts at the Cornerstone Ford service department!
Do serpentine belts go a certain way?
Because nearly all serpentine belts are symmetrical, a new belt's direction of rotation usually doesn't matter.
How do I match my belt?
Consistency is Key: Match the material of your belt to your shoes – leather with leather, suede with suede – to maintain a cohesive look. Color Harmony: Choose a belt color that either matches your shoe color or is a shade or two darker. This creates a harmonious look.
Is there a difference in serpentine belts?
Serpentine belt functions vary between vehicle models and engine designs. Not all of these accessory components may be powered by a serpentine belt. The terms “serpentine belt," “drive belt”, "fan belt”, and "V-belt" are often used interchangeably.
How much should I spend on a serpentine belt?
Whether you go to the mechanic or do it yourself, replacing a serpentine belt costs $58 to $126. The price of a serpentine belt starts at around $25 and goes up to $75 at most. It typically takes about an hour to replace the serpentine belt, and if you know some car repair basics, you could change the belt yourself.
How do I know what size belt I need?
An easy way to determine belt size is to simply “add 2″ to your off-the-rack pant size. For example, if you wear a 36”-waist trouser, then a 38 belt size will be a safe bet. Most will find this simple formula works best for pants worn at a traditional height—close to the natural waistline.
How do I know which serpentine belt I need?
You can find the correct size of serpentine belt for your car in the owner's manual or by using an online belt sizing tool. If you are unsure about the size of the serpentine belt you need, it is best to consult a mechanic or an auto parts store.
How to choose a belt?
How do you pick a good leather belt?
- the belt and belt buckle should match your personal style.
- the type of belt you wear most often.
- the craftsmanship and quality of leather the belt is made with.
- the leather color.
- your belt size and whether you need a custom size.
- your budget for an affordable belt.
