serpentine belt suitable for your car

Alternator belt for cars: find out more! How to choose, when to change , and how much they cost

Serpentine belt is a part that is used in the belt system of accessories. An alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor and water pump are driven with the serpentine belt.

Components vary in profile, length and number of wedge-shaped ribs. The relevant characteristics are always specified by the manufacturer. Be careful when buying.

V-ribbed belts have a flat surface on one side and have a wedge-shaped longitudinal ribs on the other, moreover, in order to increase the strength they are reinforced by a cord.

These elements are durable. As a rule, manufacturers recommend to change them on schedule: every 100,000 kilometers (approximately - once every four years). It should be noted that the working conditions affect the service life of the belts, especially air conditioning system and generator drives. The engine idle running is particularly disadvantageous.

• end of service life;
• slackening;
• break;
• cracking;
• abrasion
• rib separation or uneven rib wear;
• mechanical damage to the surface;
• oil contamination.

• the coating surface cracks, crumbles;
• the flat side of the belt looks glazed or the cord and the fabric layer appear through it;
• belt material is cut from the ribs and gets into the groove;
• wear of sidewalls;
• there are holes on the back side;
• the surface of the belt is swollen or sticky to the touch;
• the drive operation is accompanied by a very loud noise, sounds of blows and friction.

• incorrect tension;
• frequent overheating;
• misalignment of pulleys;
• foreign objects between the belt and pulley;
• improper installation;
• oil or lubricants getting on the belt surface;
• impact of higher loads;
• blocked pulleys;
• ignoring the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding service life.

The state of the V-ribbed belt can be assessed visually or by the wear indicator. On examination pay attention not only to the cracks and microfractures, but also to the uneven rib wear. Please note that you should examine both sides of the belt.

You can determine the correct installation of the chloroprene belts spraying them with water when the engine is running. If the belt is too noisy, and after spraying water the noise stops, pulleys are incorrectly positioned. In case of increasing noise the belt is slack. Such a diagnostic method is not suitable for EPDM components.

Checking belts, do not forget to check the rollers and the tensioner condition.

The diagnostic process is preferably carried out on a regular basis, not just in cases of suspected faults. Make it a rule to run a check during each oil change.

You can make the V-ribbed belt replacement on your own or with the help of professionals at a service station. What you select depends entirely on your self-confidence.

The important thing: replace the serpentine belt complete with worn parts of the drive. Using worn out roller and tensioner as well as the installation of a new belt on the worn out pulleys will quickly lead to new failures.

1. AutoDoc states for categorical, impeccable quality. We sell only reliable and durable parts. All components in our online store have warranty.
2. Our company provides you with the most attractive parts cost. And we have provided the opportunity for free delivery. So buying from us is profitable.
3. For any suitable part for your car check out our online shop. All models of all car brands can be repaired with us.
4. Our support team is always available. AutoDoc consultants are always ready to provide you with expert help if you are having difficulties with the selection of the desired part.