What does the idler pulley do?
The idler pulley is used as a tensioner to guide your car’s drive belt (also known as the serpentine belt or fan belt). The idler pulley controls the tension of the drive belt as it moves at high speeds, preventing it from coming loose or being damaged. A functional idler pulley will correctly guide the drive belt to various components. This will ensure that the drive belt is able to correctly transfer power to parts such as the alternator, power steering pump and air conditioning system.
The idler pulley is designed to be durable and reliable, but like any mechanical component, it can wear out over time. When this happens, you may experience several symptoms such as loud squeaking noises and failure to the components the idler pulley sends power to. Fortunately, replacing an idler pulley is a relatively simple and affordable repair. It can usually be done in a few hours, and the cost of the replacement pulley and labor is typically much less than the cost of more extensive engine repairs that could result from ignoring the issue.
Over time, the surface of the idler pulley can become worn. When this happens, the idler pulley will need to be replaced. When the pulley becomes very worn, it may begin to crack. This can lead to complete drive belt failure.
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Symptoms of a damaged idler pulley:
Squeaking noises from engine – If the surface of the idler pulley becomes worn, it can rub against the drive belt and cause it to produce a loud squealing noise.
Alternator, air conditioning or power steering not working – If the idler pulley fails, the drive belt may not be able to send energy to the alternator, air conditioning system or power steering system. This will prevent these parts from working.
Visible wear or damage to pulley – If you notice wear or damage upon inspecting the pulley, it is most likely due for replacement.
New Car Idler Pulleys in Hamilton
Is your car in need of a new drive belt idler pulley? If so, we can help!
At Grimmer Motors, our talented, honest mechanics can quickly diagnose problems in your car’s drive belt and idler pulley system. Once we have determined that the idler pulley is worn or damaged, we can replace it with a new one. This will allow your car’s drive belt to function normally. An idler pulley replacement is important as it can save other parts of your car from being damaged. For this reason, we recommend getting a new idler pulley installed as soon as possible as a form of preventative maintenance.
For idler pulley diagnostics and replacement in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!