Loading

What size socket is the belt tensioner on a 2009 Toyota Camry?

The belt tensioner mounting bolt on a 2009 Toyota Camry is typically a 14 mm socket, though exact sizes can vary with engine variant and tensioner design. Always verify by inspecting the actual bolt head or consulting the service manual for your VIN.


Common bolt sizes by Camry engine


The following sizes reflect typical factory-installed belt tensioners for the Camry’s two main engines in 2009. Verify on your specific vehicle by checking the bolt head or the official manual for your engine code.



  • 2.4L 2AZ-FE engine (4-cylinder): belt tensioner mounting bolt size is typically 14 mm.

  • 3.5L 2GR-FE engine (V6): belt tensioner mounting bolt size is typically 14 mm.


Note: The belt tensioner pulley itself may use a different bolt size (often 12 mm) depending on the tensioner design and model. Always confirm the exact bolt size before removing components.


When replacing or servicing the belt tensioner, use the correct socket size to avoid rounding the bolt, and recheck belt routing and tension after installation according to the service manual.


How to verify the exact size on your car


If you’re unsure which size applies to your particular Camry, use a process of elimination and careful inspection. Start with the most common 14 mm bolt for the tensioner mounting, and if it doesn’t fit snugly, try 13 mm or 12 mm, ensuring you don’t force the bolt. Cross-check with your engine code (2AZ-FE or 2GR-FE) and consult the factory service manual or an authorized Toyota repair guide for the precise specification.


Practical tips during replacement


Always disconnect the negative battery cable before working on the belt system, relieve tension with the appropriate tensioner tool or wrench, and replace the belt only after confirming the tensioner is seated and the belt is correctly routed. If in doubt, seek professional assistance to avoid damage or injury.


Summary: For a 2009 Camry, expect a 14 mm socket for the belt tensioner mounting bolt on the two primary engines (2AZ-FE and 2GR-FE). Confirm with the engine code and service manual, and note that pulley bolts may differ (commonly 12 mm).

What size is the socket on a 2009 Toyota Camry axle nut?


Notes: Axle Nut -- M22 x 1.5mm. Axle Nut Socket Size: M22 mm.



What size socket do I need for a tensioner pulley?


The socket size for a tensioner pulley is most commonly 14mm, 15mm, or 16mm, but can vary by vehicle. In some cases, a Torx or hex bit is needed instead of a socket. You may need a serpentine belt tool kit or a set that includes multiple socket and crowfoot wrench sizes for compatibility, as specific sizes are not universal, JustAnswer, YouTube, Amazon.com, YouTube, AST Tools]. 
This video shows how to release the serpentine belt tensioner on a Toyota Camry: 46sTRQYouTube · Feb 28, 2024

  • Common Metric Socket Sizes: 14mm, 15mm, and 16mm are frequently used for the tensioner arm or mounting bolt, 3, 4, 5, 11. 
  • Other Possibilities: Some vehicles may use a different size, such as 13mm or 18mm, 1, 4, 11. 
  • Non-Socket Tools: Some tensioners require a Torx bit (like a T60) or an Allen (hex) head socket (like a 5/16) to release the tension or remove the pivot bolt, 7, 10. 
  • Universal Tools: A universal serpentine belt tool kit can be a good investment since it includes a variety of sockets and adapters for different applications, especially in tight spaces, 4, 15. 

This video shows how to release the serpentine belt tensioner on a Dodge Ram: 57sTRQYouTube · Oct 7, 2024
To determine the correct size for your specific vehicle, you may need to visually inspect the bolt head or consult your owner's manual or a repair guide. 
This video shows how to replace a serpentine belt tensioner on a Honda CR-V: 55sTRQYouTube · Jun 16, 2025



What size wrench for tensioner pulley?


The size wrench for a tensioner pulley depends on the vehicle, but common sizes are 14 mm and 15 mm for the pulley's arm, while 12 mm or 13 mm sockets are often used for the pulley's mounting bolts. A universal or specialized serpentine belt tensioner tool that includes a range of sizes is also a good option for accessing the lug on the tensioner arm to relieve tension.
 
This video demonstrates how to use a serpentine belt tensioner tool: 53sCGFIXYouTube · Sep 16, 2024
Common wrench sizes

  • For the tensioner arm: A 14 mm wrench is frequently needed to pivot the tensioner arm and relieve tension on the belt. Other common sizes include 13 mm and 15 mm. 
  • 12 mm For the mounting bolts: or 13 mm sockets are often used to remove the bolts that hold the tensioner pulley assembly to the engine.

Specialized tools
  • A dedicated serpentine belt tensioner tool is designed for this job and often includes multiple attachments.
  • These tools are helpful for reaching into tight spaces and may include sockets in sizes like 13 mm, 14 mm, 15 mm, and 16 mm. 

Tips for the job
  • Always know the correct belt routing before you remove the old belt, by taking a picture or finding a diagram for your specific vehicle. 
  • If you don't have the right tool, you can sometimes use a breaker bar or a large socket with a breaker bar to rotate the tensioner arm, but be careful as some designs require a specific tool. 

This video shows how to remove the tensioner pulley without a special tool: 59sApache RanchYouTube · Jun 28, 2020



What is the performance tool W80497 Toyota belt tensioner socket?


The Performance Tool W80497 Toyota Belt Tensioner Socket is specifically designed to fit the special bolt securing the pulley to the belt tensioner on most 1ZZ and all 2ZZ Toyota engines. It's essential for instances where the bolt head is exposed, without a plastic cap covering it.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.