About the engine drive belt:
In the past, cars had many different belts that were used to drive different parts of your cars engine. Today, refinements have allowed for one singular belt to drive a variety of components under the hood.
The engine drive belt (or serpentine belt) is a belt that is made out of sturdy rubber and wraps around various pulleys and tensioners in your engine. As the drive belt moves, it often drives several different key components. These can include:
- The alternator
- The water pump
- The power steering system
- The air-conditioning system
In the event that your car’s drive belt fails, you will experience problems with these various parts. When this happens, you will usually have to get the drive belt replaced.
Learn more about how the drive belt works
When to replace the drive belt?
Although the engine drive belts are made out of tough, sturdy rubber material, it will eventually become subject to wear and perishing. A worn drive belt is more prone to tearing and snapping, which can result in none of its associated parts working. You can expect a drive belt to last up to 80,000 km to 100,000. However, most mechanics will recommend changing it around the 75,000 km mark to prevent it from snapping unexpectedly.
There are a few things that can potentially decrease the lifespan of your drive belt at an accelerated rate. These include:
- Oil leaking from your engine
- A misaligned or incorrectly installed alternator
- A slipping and overheating drive belt
- An over tightened drive belt
Symptoms of an engine drive belt due for a replacement:
Additionally, it is important to keep an eye out for symptoms of a worn or snapped drive belt. You can read more about these symptoms below:
- Battery Light on Dash – If the main alternator drive belt breaks your car battery will stop being charged and will quickly go flat while you are driving.
- Noises coming from the engine – A worn or damaged drive belt will produce loud, noticeable squeaking or squealing noises. If you notice these noises, be sure to inspect the drive belt for damage and get it replaced if necessary.
- Visible damage to the drive belt – Upon inspecting the drive belt, you may notice visible cracks, rips, tears or other forms of damage. If so, it is time for a drive belt replacement.
- Overheating engine – When the drive belt snaps or stops working, the water pump can stop working as well. This will prevent coolant from being pumped around your engine, resulting in an increased engine temperature.
- Tight steering – A broken drive belt will also affect the operation of your power steering system. This will lead to very tight and heavy steering.
Engine Drive Belt Replacement in Hamilton
Is your car in need of a new engine drive belt? If so, we can help! At Grimmer Motors, our team of experienced mechanics can remove your old, worn or snapped engine drive belt and replace it with a new one. This will keep the various parts of your car functioning correctly.
For new drive/serpentine belts in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!