There are many critical car components under the hood, and the serpentine belt is one of them. You'll need it replaced over time as the rubber material wears down, which will impact the performance of the alternator, air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, and more, which is why it's essential to know the signs that it's time for a replacement.
Signs Your Serpentine Belt Needs Replacement
There are several indications that your vehicle's serpentine belt should be replaced soon:
- Age and mileage: Serpentine belts typically last between 60,000 to 100,000 miles. If your vehicle is in this mileage range or the belt is more than five and six years old, consider having it inspected and possibly replaced, especially if you regularly drive in extreme temperatures.
- Physical damage: Visually check the belt for signs of advanced wear, such as cracks, fraying, splits, or missing rubber pieces. If you see any of these, the belt is at risk of breaking and should be replaced.
- Slipping and squealing: If you hear a persistent squealing noise coming from the front of your car, especially during startup or when using accessories like air conditioning, it could mean the serpentine belt is slipping due to wear. Slipping belts can also cause accessories like power steering or air conditioning to work intermittently.
If the serpentine belt fails while you're driving, it can render your car undrivable, leaving you stranded on the side of the road. A worn or damaged belt can also slip off completely, potentially damaging other components in the engine compartment. That's why it's best to replace your serpentine belt proactively based on the mileage intervals in your owner's manual or when you notice signs of advanced wear.
The certified technicians at Mills Chevrolet in Davenport, IA can help determine if your vehicle is due for a serpentine belt replacement. During an inspection, we'll assess the belt's condition and let you know if it should be replaced to keep your car running reliably. If a new belt is needed, our service center can quickly take care of the replacement to get you back on the road with confidence.