A serpentine belt is not a tacky snakeskin wardrobe accessory. It is a vital automotive part that helps power your car’s engine. If you have been driving your vehicle for several years, but have never had the serpentine belt replaced, it could be time now. Continue reading to learn what you need to know about serpentine belts, including information on serpentine belt replacement, maintenance, and repair.
Serpentine Belt Operation and Design
A serpentine belt is a long belt inside the engine that winds around various pulleys, thus aligning them with the motion of the engine’s crankshaft. As the serpentine belt goes round, it causes the pulleys to turn, which sends power to many automotive components within a vehicle, including the air conditioning, alternator, power steering pump, and water pump.
If you have an older vehicle, keep in mind that they are known to require serpentine belt replacement sooner than modern-day vehicles do. Consult with your local Indianapolis auto repair shop to determine a routine car maintenance plan to support proper engine efficiency and performance.
Common Signs of a Failing Serpentine Belt
Although serpentine belts are manufactured to last for many years, they do need replaced every now and then. You will know if your serpentine belt needs to be replaced by looking for certain automotive performance issues. For instance, if you are having trouble with your air conditioning, car battery, or dimming lights in your car, it could be due to the serpentine belt not allowing the pulleys to send power to these automotive components.
Here’s What To Look For:
➾ Squealing Noise From Steering Wheel
➾ Battery Warning Light on Dash
➾ Temperature Warning Light on Dash
➾ Check Engine Light on Dash
➾ Sluggish or Heavy Steering
➾ Broken Air Conditioning
Serpentine Belt Replacement and Costs
Most automotive manufacturers recommend replacing serpentine belt at 60,000 miles; however, many vehicles can drive up to 100,000 miles without serpentine belt replacement work. The most important element of serpentine belt replacement is catching the need for replacement before the serpentine belt breaks.
Early diagnosis of engine problems is important, which is why routine car maintenance is critical for your vehicle’s safety, performance, and longevity. Your Indianapolis IN mechanic will be able to spot the need for serpentine belt work before it can break down on you. Not only can the save you a lot of time and stress, but it can also save you money.
The cost to replace a serpentine belt will depend on the price of the auto part itself and labor. Serpentine bells usually run anywhere from $25-$75, depending on the retailer and the make and model of the vehicle. Labor to remove and replace the serpentine belt can range anywhere from $100 to $200 or so. So, you can expect to pay anywhere between $200 and $300, depending on your make and model vehicle and the complexity of the job.
Are you looking for a trusted automotive mechanic for serpentine belt replacement in the Indy area? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional, ASE-licensed engine repair services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!
Related Posts:
6 Signs That Suggest You Need Alternator Repair
Do I Have to Repair a Check Engine Light?
Top 4 Reasons Why Your Car Won’t Start