It’s called a serpentine belt because it snakes around multiple components in your car’s engine. The belt connects the crankshaft to the water pump, alternator, and air conditioner compressor, among other parts. Older cars had multiple belts that connected these systems, but newer cars have one belt that lasts longer and is easier to change. Any do-it-yourself enthusiast can easily replace the serpentine belt with just five steps and basic tools. If you have ever changed your oil or rotated your tires, you’ve got all the skills necessary to install your car’s serpentine belt.
Gather the Necessary Tools
The first step to changing your serpentine belt is to gather the needed tools and materials. The good news is that not much is required to complete this job other than a tensioner tool, socket wrench, and a new serpentine belt. Also, a pair of gloves to protect your hands is always a good idea when performing vehicle repairs and maintenance.
Find the Belt Tensioner
First, you will need to find the belt tensioner. You can find your vehicle’s engine schematic online, which should help you locate the belt tensioner. In many cars, the belt tensioner will have a square hole in the middle, so you need a belt tensioner tool. Other vehicles will have a bolt that you can loosen with a socket. Next, loosen the tensioner to release the tension on the belt enough that you can slide it off the pulleys.
Remove the Old Belt
Once you have loosened the belt tensioner, you should be able to wiggle the serpentine belt with your fingers. Next, remove the belt and inspect the grooves in the pulleys. Finally, clean the grooves needed with a wire brush if needed.
Put on a New Serpentine Belt
Next, you will need to install the new serpentine belt. Snake the new belt around the pulleys and make sure that the grooves on the belt fit into the grooves on the pulleys. Once you have replaced the belt, tighten the belt tensioner and ensure that the belt is secure.
Finish Things up by Making Sure Everything is Secure
Now it’s time to start your car’s engine to check that everything is adequately secured. Let the engine run for a few minutes and visually inspect the belt and pulleys. Make sure everything is working as it should, and no warning lights come on.
Changing your car’s serpentine belt is a routine car maintenance project that most DIYers can handle. However, if you don’t feel comfortable with this job, see your auto care professional as soon as possible.
