Serpentine Belt Replacement
Serpentine Belt Replacement and Service at Stanley Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Gilmer
Make sure your vehicle is performing well by having regular service and maintenance performed. When parts need to be replaced, you can count on the service team at Stanley Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM Gilmer. One such part that wears out in time is the serpentine belt, one of the most important components to keep your vehicle running well. When you are driving around Gilmer, Tyler, and Longview, you’ll want to make sure you don’t end up stranded should the serpentine belt fail.What a Serpentine Belt Does
The serpentine belt got its name because it is a long belt that winds its way about several pullies like a serpent. The serpentine belt controls the water pump, power steering, alternator, and air conditioning. Without this belt, your alternator couldn’t power the vehicle or charge the battery.Years ago, older vehicles had more belts to control more systems. On newer models, the serpentine belt takes care of multiple systems. Over time the serpentine belt slowly begins to stretch out, with automatic tensioners that adapt to this stretching out to keep the belt taught so it will continue to do its job. Eventually, even the tensioners can’t help.
How Often Do You Need to Get a New One?
Your serpentine belt is rubber, and it begins to lose its flexibility due to extremes of heat and cold. Over long-term use, the belt will start to crack. Today, the rubber that is manufactured is more durable than it used to be, so the belt lasts longer than it did.Generally, the belt will last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. If you do not drive as much as most people, it may still need to be replaced within four to six years, even with low mileage.
When the belt breaks or fails to do its job, the systems it controls will also cease to function. If it is nearing the end of its life, you may notice some or all these signs:
- A visual inspection shows fraying, cracks or even chunks missing
- A high-pitched squeal can be heard from the belt when in use
- Your vehicle gets too hot and the cooling system cannot compensate well
- The battery fails to charge, or you see the battery icon light up in your dash
- Power steering doesn’t respond as quickly as it once did, or it feels sluggish when turning
- Air conditioning isn’t cooling as effectively as before