How much does it cost to replace a serpentine belt on a Toyota Highlander?

Replacing a serpentine belt on a Toyota Highlander typically costs about $150 to $350 for most recent models, with higher costs at a dealership or if a tensioner or idler pulley is included.

Prices vary by model year and engine type, location, and whether the service is belt-only or belt plus tensioner. This article explains cost factors, typical ranges, and how to save.

Cost factors that influence the price

Prices for replacing a serpentine belt can differ based on several variables, including engine configuration, labor rates, and whether additional parts are changed during the service.

• Engine type and model year: Different Highlander engines use different belt lengths and routing, which can affect parts price and labor time.


• Parts chosen: OEM Toyota belts tend to cost more than aftermarket belts; adding a new tensioner and/or idler pulley increases both parts and labor costs.


• Labor rates and shop type: Dealerships typically charge higher hourly rates than independent repair shops, which raises the overall price.


• Geographic location: Prices can vary regionally due to wage levels and overhead.

In practice, the total cost is mostly driven by whether you replace just the belt or also the tensioner/pulley, and by the local labor rate.

Engine, year, and regional differences

Newer Highlander models or those with more access constraints can take longer to service, which pushes labor costs upward. Regional pricing also plays a role in the final bill.

Labor vs parts considerations

Labor is a major component of the price, often reflecting the time required to remove components to access the belt. Parts costs vary with belt type (OEM vs aftermarket) and whether accompanying parts like the tensioner or idler pulley are replaced at the same time.

Pricing scenarios by service package

Below are common service options and their typical price ranges. Note that if a water pump or other component is replaced at the same time, the total will be higher.

• Belt-only replacement (no tensioner/pulley): typically $100–$200 for parts plus $60–$140 labor; total usually $160–$350.


• Belt plus tensioner and/or idler pulley replacement: typically $180–$350 for parts; $100–$200 labor; total around $300–$550.


• Dealership pricing (belt-only or belt+tensioner): commonly higher, typically $250–$500 for belt+tensioner, and up to $600 or more if extra parts or diagnostics are included.


• Optional add-ons (water pump or other accessory replacement): can add $200–$600 to the job, depending on parts and labor.

Prices will vary by shop and region, so it’s wise to shop around and get multiple written estimates before proceeding.

Maintenance tips and cost-saving ideas

To minimize costs and avoid surprises, consider these practices.

• Ask for belt-only replacement when the tensioner and pulleys are in good condition; confirm what the quote covers.


• Get multiple quotes from independent shops and the dealership to compare pricing and warranties.


• Ask for OEM vs aftermarket belt options and ensure compatibility with your Highlander’s engine.


• Address signs of wear early (squealing, cracking, or fraying) to prevent a more expensive failure.

Concluding advice: By planning ahead, you can choose the right service level and minimize downtime and cost.

Signs your Highlander belt needs replacement

Look for visible wear such as cracks or fraying, a squealing noise from the engine bay, or a belt that feels slick or loose. A failing belt can affect multiple systems, including power steering and the alternator, and in some cases may lead to overheating if the water pump is affected.

Note on timing belts vs serpentine belts

Most Toyota Highlander models use a serpentine belt to drive accessories, while the timing belt (if equipped) is a separate maintenance item with its own replacement interval. The serpentine belt replacement is typically straightforward, but timing belt work is more involved and less common on modern Highlanders.

Summary

In short, a serpentine belt replacement for a Toyota Highlander generally falls in the $150–$350 range if you’re replacing just the belt, with total costs rising to roughly $300–$550 if you also replace the tensioner and pulleys. Dealer prices tend to be higher, and adding parts like a water pump can push the bill further. Prices vary by engine type, model year, location, and shop, so obtaining multiple quotes is the best way to ensure a fair price.

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. 

What is the most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?

The most common problem with the Toyota Highlander is a major oil leak and loss of oil pressure caused by a faulty VVT-i oil line. Other frequent issues include infrequent but noticeable interior rattles, especially from the moonroof or dashboard, and problems with the 8-speed automatic transmission in 2017-2019 models, leading to noises, delayed shifting, and failure. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with Toyota Highlander, including the 8-speed transmission issue: 59sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025
Most common problems

• VVT-i oil line rupture: This is the most frequent and serious issue, where the oil line bursts, causing a massive oil leak that can lead to complete engine failure if the vehicle is driven while the low oil pressure light is on. A revised part has been issued, but it has also been reported to have the same problem. 
• Interior rattles and noises: Many owners report various rattles and squeaks coming from the interior, such as the moonroof, dashboard, or infotainment screen, particularly on bumpy roads or in cold weather. 
• 8-speed automatic transmission: Specific models, particularly the 2017–2019 Highlanders, have been associated with issues such as a whining noise, delayed shifts, hard shifts, and even complete failure. 
• Airbag sensor failure: Some models have a faulty front passenger airbag sensor that can short-circuit, preventing the airbag from deploying correctly. 

Other potential issues

• Air and water leaks: Some model years have reported issues with plugged sunroof drain lines, leading to water leaks inside the vehicle. 
• Check engine light: This can be caused by various issues, such as the hose coming off the air filter housing or a failed oxygen sensor. 
• Brake issues: Some models have reported premature wear of brake pads and rotors, or a vibrating sensation when braking. 

This video discusses problems with the 8-speed transmission in the 2017-2019 Toyota Highlander: 58sThe Car Care NutYouTube · Jul 31, 2021

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.

How much is a serpentine belt for a Toyota Highlander?

between $133 and $199
The average cost for a Toyota Highlander Serpentine Belt Replacement is between $133 and $199 but can vary from car to car.