When to Replace the Engine Drive Belt
In the past, different aspects of your car’s engine were driven by a variety of different belts. Today, improvements enable a single belt to drive a number of internal components.
The serpentine belt, also known as the engine drive belt, is a belt that your engine uses to drive numerous pulleys and tensioners. It is made of durable rubber. The drive belt frequently drives a number of important parts as it moves.
When should the Drive Belt be changed?
The engine drive belts are comprised of a durable, strong rubber material, however with time they will deteriorate and wear out. A worn drive belt is more likely to break and snap, which might cause all of its linked parts to stop functioning. A drive belt should last 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers. To avoid an unplanned failure, however, most mechanics will advise replacing it at the 75,000 mile mark.
A few things have the ability to shorten your drive belt’s lifespan at an accelerated rate. These consist of:
(a) Your engine is leaking oil.
(b) An alternator that is misplaced or improperly mounted
(c) A drive belt that is overheated and sliding
(d) A very tight driving belt
Signs that an engine drive belt needs to be replaced include:
Additionally, it’s critical to watch out for signs of a broken or worn drive belt. Below is more information on these signs:
Battery Light on Dash – While you are driving, your car battery will cease being charged and will quickly run out of power. This can happen if the main alternator drive belt breaks.
The Engine is making noises. A damaged or worn drive belt will make audible, loud squeaking or squealing noises. If you hear these noises, make sure the drive belt is examined for damage and, if necessary, replaced.
Visual damage to the Drive Belt – You can spot visible cracks, rips, tears, or other types of damage when you inspect the drive belt. If so, it’s time to replace the drive belt.
Engine Overheating – The water pump may cease working if the drive belt breaks or stops functioning. By doing this, you can avoid having coolant poured around your engine, which would raise engine temperature.
Tight Steering – The performance of your power steering system will also be impacted by a faulty drive belt. This will result in extremely heavy and tight steering.
