Who makes the Honda serpentine belt tensioner?
As a seasoned auto service provider, I often encounter questions about specific car parts and their manufacturers. One common inquiry is about the serpentine belt tensioner used in Honda vehicles. Understanding who makes this crucial component can help car owners make informed decisions regarding maintenance and repairs.
What is a Serpentine Belt Tensioner?
The serpentine belt tensioner is an essential part of a vehicle's engine system. It maintains the proper tension on the serpentine belt, which drives multiple accessories such as the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. A properly functioning tensioner ensures that these components operate efficiently and helps prevent belt slippage or failure.
Manufacturers of Honda Serpentine Belt Tensioners
Honda vehicles typically use serpentine belt tensioners manufactured by several reputable companies. Here are the primary manufacturers:
- Honda Genuine Parts: The most reliable option is always the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. Honda produces its own tensioners that are designed specifically for their vehicles, ensuring perfect fit and function.
- Dayco: Known for high-quality automotive parts, Dayco manufactures serpentine belt tensioners that meet or exceed OEM specifications.
- Gates: Another leading manufacturer, Gates offers a range of tensioners that are widely used in the automotive industry, including for Honda models.
- ACDelco: While primarily associated with General Motors, ACDelco also produces tensioners compatible with various Honda vehicles.
Choosing the Right Tensioner
When selecting a serpentine belt tensioner for your Honda, consider the following:
- OEM vs. Aftermarket: OEM parts are generally more reliable, but aftermarket options can be cost-effective if they meet quality standards.
- Warranty: Check if the tensioner comes with a warranty, which can provide peace of mind regarding its durability.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the tensioner is compatible with your specific Honda model and year.
Conclusion
In summary, the serpentine belt tensioner for Honda vehicles is manufactured by several reputable companies, including Honda itself, Dayco, Gates, and ACDelco. When replacing this critical component, it's essential to choose a high-quality part to maintain your vehicle's performance and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do serpentine belt tensioners last?
While there is no set lifespan for the drive belt tensioner, it is suggested that you have it inspected each time you perform the regular routine maintenance of your drive belt system. This is a good way to detect early warning signs of any possible problems.
How long do Honda serpentine belts last?
50,000 to 100,000 miles
Also known as drive belts or accessory drive belts, serpentine belts are made of sturdy rubber typically meant to last for 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, this can see wear over time with exposure to heat and friction.
Do you need to replace the tensioner when replacing a serpentine belt?
Serpentine belts don't require tension adjustment. Instead, a spring-loaded or hydraulic tensioner has a pulley that leans against the belt. In addition to the pulley on the tensioner, there may be another idler pulley that routes the belt.
What kind of serpentine belt is best?
Bando is unmatched when it comes to making high-quality serpentine belts. Bando has been around for over a century. The Bando belts have high durability and do not wear out quickly.
What belt does Honda use?
Honda vehicles are equipped with a serpentine belt, also known as a drive belt. Serpentine belts have replaced other types of belts because a single belt is more compact, less expensive to replace and simpler to install compared to multiple belts.
How much does it cost to replace a belt tensioner on a Honda?
The average cost for a Honda Accord Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement is between $376 and $426. Labor costs are estimated between $61 and $77 while parts are priced between $315 and $349. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
Are all belt tensioners the same?
For the most part, all belt tensioners look the same. Some are bigger, and others are smaller. Yet, the design more or less remains the same. The belt tensioner is always on the serpentine belt's path.
What causes serpentine belt tensioner to go bad?
Wear and Tear: Like all mechanical components, serpentine belt tensioners are subject to wear and tear with regular use. Over time, the tensioner's internal components such as the spring and pulley bearings can degrade, leading to decreased effectiveness and eventual failure.
Can you replace a belt tensioner yourself?
To remove the tensioner, you'll remove the bolt or bolts securing it. Be sure to keep those bolts in case your new tensioner doesn't include them. Install your new tensioner by bolting it in place, and torqueing the bolts to manufacturer's specifications.
Are murray tensioners good?
We are proud that our American Made products continue to provide the quality and dependability the MURRAY name is famous for. If you have ever owned a Murray part you know that there is no better tensioner or sprocket on the market.
