What Does a Serpentine Belt Do?
Performing tire rotations as a preventative maintenance will equalize front-to-rear and side-to-side wear rates.
Just about every vehicle has a serpentine belt. It’s the ribbed, reinforced rubber belt that powers all the accessories:
- Alternator: Keeps the battery charged
- Water pump: Keeps vehicle from overheating
- Air conditioning: Keeps you cool and defrost working properly
- Power steering pump: Provides the power steering
- And various other components in your vehicle (depending on year, make, model).
Regular inspections can keep you from having a breakdown or getting stuck. When your serpentine belt is making squealing sounds, it is a good idea to inspect for the cause. If the serpentine belt becomes oil soaked or “glazed,” the belt will not be able to provide the proper torque to the engine. Like most things, belts don’t last forever and when it fails your vehicle will stop running.
Some signs that your serpentine belt needs replaced would be any sort of cracking or glazing.
What Are the Benefits to Replacing My Serpentine Belt?
Prevent Breakdowns: Prevents unwanted breakdowns.
Avoid Expensive Repairs: Reduces need for more costly repairs caused by the belt breaking.
Proper Maintenance: Keeps your vehicle running and on the road.
Accessory Components: Keeps alternator, water pump, power steering and A/C engaged.
When Should I Service My Serpentine Belt?
Mileage and/or Time: Services are due based on manufacturers recommendation of mileage and/or time.
Testing and/or Condition: When multiple cracks can be seen in a 1”inch area, the belt should be replaced.
Abnormalities: If there are abnormal noises or conditions. (see repair facility for further diagnosis & repair)
*Disclaimer: All Additional Services are Recommended Based on Mileage, unless otherwise noted or previous service history is available to reference.
Serpentine Belt conditions are used for illustration and informative purposes for the customer.
Stop by an LOF Xpress™ Oil Change Near You for a Serpentine Belt Replacement!
