The serpentine belt, also known as the fan belt or accessory belt, is a long, snake-like belt that runs through various parts of your automobile. It is made of a thin piece of rubber, and it is responsible for transferring power to your power steering pump, alternator, A/C compressor, and many more vital automobile components.
How To Tell When the Serpentine Belt Is Failing
Similar to the other belts in your vehicle, you can look for physical signs of a failing belt. Since the belt is made of rubber, it is susceptible to glazing, fraying, and cracking when it is old. Additionally, it may cause some of your vehicle’s vital components (mentioned above) to fail.
- If your A/C has stopped working recently, don’t let it slip past you that it could be related to the serpentine belt.
- Another example would be a loss in power steering. If you notice that it takes a lot of energy to turn your wheel, please have this checked out.
- If your vehicle engine has overheated once or more times, it could be due to the fact that the serpentine belt is not supplying enough power to the cooling system’s water pump.
- Last but not least, a drained battery is a good giveaway that your serpentine belt is the culprit. When the belt is no longer supplying power to your vehicle’s alternator, it won’t be able to charge the battery.
Another sign that indicates a worn accessories belt is if you hear a squealing sound coming from under the hood. When the rubber has lost its elasticity and integrity, it may slip and rub against other parts.
If you need your car, SUV, or truck’s serpentine belt inspected or replaced, turn to the automotive technicians at Crossroads Tire Services, LLC. We welcome you to bring your vehicle into our auto repair shop today!