How much does it cost to replace a serpentine belt on a Honda Accord?

On average, a serpentine belt replacement for a Honda Accord typically runs about $125 to $300, depending on the model year, engine type, and where you have the work done. Costs rise if a tensioner, idler pulley, or multiple pulleys are replaced along with the belt, or if you choose a dealership over an independent shop.

What follows provides a detailed look at the price components, factors that influence the total, and practical guidance to help you estimate and manage the repair cost.

Typical cost breakdown

Costs for replacing a serpentine belt break down into parts and labor. The numbers below reflect common ranges you might see at shops or dealerships in the United States.

• Serpentine belt: $25–$90


• Belt tensioner: $60–$180


• Idler pulley(s): $15–$60 each


• Labor (0.5–1.5 hours, depending on shop and vehicle): $80–$150 per hour

In many cases, you’ll only need a belt replacement, which keeps the total on the lower end. If the tensioner or pulleys are worn and replaced at the same time, or if more components are involved, the total can be higher.

What affects the price

Engine type and model year

Honda Accord models across generations use slightly different belt setups and may require different pulley configurations. Non-hybrid four-cylinder engines generally share a similar serpentine belt layout, while hybrid variants can have unique accessory drives. These differences can influence both part prices and labor time.

Labor rates and location

Labor costs vary widely by region and shop type. Dealerships tend to charge more per hour than independent repair shops, and urban markets typically have higher labor rates than rural areas. A quote can differ by $50–$150 or more between shops in the same city.

What else is being replaced

If the belt is replaced along with a worn tensioner, idler pulleys, or a failing serpentine belt system component, expect higher parts costs and longer labor time. Some scenarios also involve checking for belt wear indicators or measuring tension, which can impact the final price.

Cost scenarios you might encounter

These scenarios illustrate how the total price can vary depending on what’s needed.

• Belt replacement only (belt change, no other parts): $105–$240


• Belt replacement + tensioner replacement: $220–$440


• Belt replacement + tensioner + pulley(s) replacement: $300–$580

Prices shown are typical ranges and can vary with your specific model year, the shop’s hourly rate, and regional cost differences. It’s common to receive a written quote that breaks down parts and labor separately.

DIY vs professional replacement

Do-it-yourself belt replacement is feasible for experienced DIYers with the right tools (tensioning tool or a breaker bar and appropriate wrenches) and a service manual. The belt is relatively straightforward to swap, but diagnosing or replacing the tensioner and pulleys increases complexity and risk if not done correctly. If you’re unsure, a professional installation ensures proper belt tension and alignment and may come with a warranty on the installed parts.

Tips to save money

Consider these strategies to keep costs down without compromising reliability:

• Shop around for quotes from independent shops, not just the dealer.


• Ask for a belt-only price if you know the tensioner and pulleys are in good condition.


• Inquire about a bundled price if multiple components (belt + tensioner + pulleys) are replaced.


• Compare OEM vs aftermarket belt options, and confirm warranty terms on parts.

When evaluating quotes, ensure the estimate clearly lists parts, labor hours, hourly rate, and any fees, so you can make an apples-to-apples comparison.

Summary

For a Honda Accord, a serpentine belt replacement generally falls in the $125–$300 range if you’re only replacing the belt. Replacing the belt plus a worn tensioner or idler pulleys commonly brings the total to the $200–$500 range, with higher prices in some markets or at dealerships. Always obtain a written quote that separates parts and labor, consider whether additional components are needed, and decide whether a DIY approach or a professional installation best fits your skill level and risk tolerance.

Can I still drive with a bad serpentine belt?

No, you cannot safely drive with a bad serpentine belt; it should be replaced immediately. Continuing to drive can lead to a complete vehicle breakdown, potentially damaging expensive engine components, and poses a significant safety risk due to the loss of essential functions like power steering and power brakes. If the belt breaks completely, pull over to a safe location and call for a tow. 
Why you shouldn't drive with a bad serpentine belt

• Vehicle breakdown: If the belt breaks, essential systems that rely on it will fail, leading to a loss of power steering, power brakes, and engine cooling. 
• Engine damage: Without the belt, the water pump will stop circulating coolant, causing the engine to overheat very quickly. This can cause severe and costly damage to the cylinder heads, gaskets, and other internal engine components. 
• Electrical failure: The alternator is driven by the serpentine belt, so a broken belt means the battery will no longer be charged. The car will only run on battery power until the battery is drained, which could be a matter of minutes. 
• Safety risks: The sudden loss of power steering and brakes can make it very difficult to control the vehicle, increasing the risk of an accident. 

This video demonstrates what happens to a Dodge Charger when the serpentine belt breaks: 1mAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Aug 19, 2022
What to do instead

• Pull over immediately: If the belt breaks while you are driving, pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. 
• Turn off electronics: Turn off all non-essential electronics, such as the radio and air conditioning, to conserve battery power. 
• Call for a tow: Do not attempt to drive the vehicle to a mechanic. Have the car towed to prevent further damage and ensure your safety. 

Can Jiffy Lube replace a serpentine belt?

Yes, Jiffy Lube can replace a serpentine belt. Their technicians can inspect the current belt for signs of wear and, if needed, remove the old one and install a new one to help power components like the alternator, water pump, and A/C compressor. 

• What they do: Jiffy Lube provides serpentine belt replacement service, which includes a visual inspection and installation of a new belt. 
• Service includes: The service involves removing the old belt and installing a new one that meets manufacturer specifications. 
• Purpose of the belt: The serpentine belt is a single, continuous belt that drives multiple engine components, such as the alternator, water pump, and power steering pump. 
• Timing: Replacement is recommended when the belt shows signs of wear, and the service is relatively quick, often taking less than an hour for most vehicles. 

How much would a shop charge to replace a serpentine belt?

between $100 and $200
On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for a serpentine belt replacement at a reputable auto repair shop. If additional components need replacement, the cost may go up. It's important to note that neglecting a noisy serpentine belt can lead to more significant issues.

Is it worth replacing a serpentine belt?

Yes, replacing a serpentine belt is worth it to prevent serious engine damage and costly repairs. It's a crucial piece of maintenance to avoid issues like losing power steering or having your engine overheat. It's recommended to replace it at manufacturer-specified intervals (often between 60,000 and 100,000 miles) or if you notice signs of wear, such as cracks, fraying, or unusual noises.
 
Why you should replace it

• Prevents expensive damage: If the belt breaks, it can cause a cascade of failures. It could damage other engine components or lead to engine overheating, which is extremely costly to fix. 
• Avoids major inconveniences: A broken belt will cause immediate problems like a loss of power steering, no air conditioning, and an inoperable alternator, potentially leaving you stranded. 
• It's relatively inexpensive: The cost of a replacement belt and labor is minimal compared to the potential damage from a failure. 

Signs that it's time for a replacement

• Visible signs of damage: Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny surface), or missing chunks on the belt. 
• Audible cues: A squealing or chirping sound coming from under the hood, especially when the engine is first started. 
• Performance issues: Other accessories not working correctly, a battery warning light on the dashboard, or heavy steering. 
• Maintenance schedule: The belt should be replaced as part of your vehicle's regular maintenance schedule, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.