Caring for your car does not only mean changing the oil and the tires now and then. Another important aspect that is not given much attention is the accessory belt, which is also referred to as the serpentine belt.
This quiet workhorse supports many of your car’s critical components, such as the alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, and even the water pump in some automobiles.
Failure of this belt can cause a chain effect and leave you stranded with a car that is no longer functional. In this post, we will help you understand how to check and service your car’s accessory belt to keep it running well. Moreover, if you want to keep your car running smoothly then you should stay on top with car engine service.
Understanding the Accessory Belt
The accessory belt is a long belt that is twisted around several pulleys found in the compartment of the automobile engine.
It is usually constructed from a strong rubber based composite material that is suitable for withstanding the strains that are associated with the operation of an engine.
But like any other part, it can wear out with time and regular usage due to various reasons.
Key Functions:
- Alternator:
It operates the electrical connections and charges the battery.
- Power Steering Pump:
Reduces the efforts required to steer and makes the steering more sensitive.
- Air Conditioning Compressor:
Cools air for the cabin and supplies fresh air in the cabin as well.
- Water Pump:
Assists in circulating coolants used to control the body temperature of the engine.
The signs of a worn accessory belt include:
In order to thoroughly understand the inspection process, one must understand the signs of a worn accessory belt. This is important because it enables you to prevent such situations before they develop into serious cases.
Squealing Noise:
A loud screeching sound emanating from under the hood, particularly from the engine compartment, is a typical sign of a bad or slipping belt.
Visible Cracks or Fraying:
During the inspection, one can check for visible signs of wear like cracks, fraying edges or glazing on the belt surface.
Engine Overheating:
This is especially a reality where the accessory belt drives the water pump; when the belt is damaged, the engine is most likely to overheat.
Battery Warning Light:
If the belt is not driving the alternator effectively, the battery warning light may illuminate your dashboard.
Loss of Power Steering:
A stiff or unresponsive steering wheel can indicate a problem with the belt driving the power steering pump.
Checking Your Car’s Accessory Belt
The process of checking an accessory belt is simple and can help you avoid serious problems with your vehicle.
Step 1: Safety First
Be certain your car is parked on a level ground, and your engine is off, and ideally, it should be cold. As mentioned earlier, working with a hot car engine can be dangerous and lead to burns and other related injuries.
Step 2: The next step is to find out the position of the Accessory Belt.
Go to the hood of the car and look for the belt known as the accessory belt. If you are not sure where the dipstick is, then you should check in the car owner’s manual.
The majority of contemporary automobiles have a stencil showing the belt’s course under the hood, which will aid in determining the belt’s position and the path it takes around the pulleys.
Step 3: Visual Inspection
Scan the entire length of the belt and look for any signs of wear on the belt. Check for hairline cracks, fraying, glazing, or even discoloration on the surface of the leather.
Especially, pay attention to the ribs located on the side of the belt, they are essential for a tight grip on the pulleys.
Step 4: Check the belt tension
When adjusting the belt tension, the tension of the belt is adjusted until it is just tight enough to keep the belt from slipping.
Feel the tension of the belt using a belt tension gauge or by your hand. The belt should be slightly flexible but not overly slack, and the proper tension can be achieved by tightening it.
If the belt is tight or loose, it may require changes or replacements, which should be done by a professional.
Step 5:
As much as possible, look into the pulleys as well as other parts of the equipment.
If the belt is being replaced, then you should also check the pulleys for signs of wear or damage while on this. Turn each pulley by hand to check its free rotation without any wobbling or grinding noises.
Step 6: Listen for Unusual Noises
Turn the engine on and wait for some time, then try to listen for the sounds coming from the belt area. If it has a squealing or chirping sound, this may signal a belt or pulley issue.
Takeaway
Maintaining your car’s accessory belt is a crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance that can prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your car’s systems operate smoothly.
Regular inspections, timely replacements, and the use of quality parts from Erics Car Care can extend the life of the belt and keep your vehicle running efficiently.
Remember, while inspecting and maintaining the accessory belt is relatively straightforward, it requires attention to detail and a bit of mechanical know-how. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance.
