

This will allow you to have your car inspected by expert technicians who can diagnose and correct a defective belt as soon as possible to prevent any engine damage. If you notice one or more of the aforementioned signs of a bad belt, take your car to a certified auto repair shop. The timing belt dictates whether your car’s engine will run. Over time, these belts need to be replaced (roughly around the same time). In contrast, a serpentine belt has multiple V-shaped grooves that appear vertically along the belt. Bad Timing Belt SymptomsĬommon signs of a failing timing belt include: A timing belt has horizontal 'teeth' that are made to fit both the crankshaft and camshaft. The signs of a defective V-belt are identical to those of a faulty serpentine belt. Squealing noise from the front of your car.There are many signs that your car’s serpentine belt may need to be replaced, and these include: If any signs of damage or severe wear and tear are identified, the belts can be replaced. By undergoing annual car inspections, you can have your drive belts evaluated. It is often beneficial to change the drive belts in your car approximately every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. How Often Should You Change the Belts in Your Car? However, the timing belt should not be ignored otherwise, if the timing belt wears down and malfunctions, it may result in a costly, time-intensive engine rebuild. It can be tough to see the timing belt due to the fact that it is likely hidden underneath a timing cover. Timing BeltĪ timing belt links your car engine’s crankshaft to its camshaft the crankshaft helps the engine’s pistons rotate, while the camshaft helps open and close engine valves. Additionally, if V-belts become loose, they can cause your alternator to malfunction and lead your engine to overheat. V-belts can be more difficult to change than serpentine belts. Older cars often have several V-belts used for power steering, air conditioning, and other operating essentials. V-BeltĪ V-belt runs off a crank and pulley and typically travels between one or two engine accessories.
TIMING BELT VS SERPENTINE BELT INSTALL
It also tends to last longer than other types of drive belts, is simple to install and remove, and transmits power between a car’s air conditioner compressor, water pump, alternator, and steering pump. This type of drive belt is usually found in cars produced after 1990. Serpentine BeltĪ serpentine belt is located under the hood of a car, and it “snakes” its way between various pulleys and accessories. What Is a Drive Belt? Here’s What You Need to Know If you know about the different kinds of drive belts, you can properly maintain them and replace them as needed. When it comes to drive belts, multiple types are necessary to keep your car running. What Is a Drive Belt, and When Should You Change Belts in Your Car?
