01Gather the necessary tools and materials

  • Before starting the replacement process, make sure you have the following tools and materials:
  • - New serpentine belt
  • - Socket wrench or serpentine belt tool
  • - Belt routing diagram (usually located on a sticker under the hood or in the owner's manual)
  • - Gloves and safety glasses

02Locate the tensioner pulley

  • The tensioner pulley is responsible for keeping the serpentine belt tight. It is usually located near the center of the engine and has a square or hexagonal hole in the center. Use the appropriate socket or tool to fit into the hole.

03Relieve tension on the belt

  • Insert the socket or tool into the tensioner pulley's hole and rotate it counterclockwise. This action will relieve tension on the belt, allowing you to remove it easily.
  • Note: Some vehicles may have a tensioner pulley with a built-in lever. In such cases, you can use a wrench to rotate the lever and relieve tension.

04Remove the old belt

  • With the tension relieved, slide the old serpentine belt off the pulleys. Take note of the belt's routing by referring to the belt routing diagram. This diagram will help you install the new belt correctly.

05Install the new belt

  • Refer to the belt routing diagram and slide the new serpentine belt over the pulleys. Make sure the belt is properly seated on each pulley.
  • Rotate the tensioner pulley counterclockwise again, allowing you to easily slip the new belt onto the last pulley.
  • Double-check the belt's routing to ensure it matches the diagram.

06Apply tension to the new belt

  • Use the socket or tool to rotate the tensioner pulley counterclockwise once more. This action will apply tension to the new serpentine belt, ensuring it is securely in place.
  • Check the belt's tension by pressing down on it. It should not deflect more than around half an inch. If it does, further tension adjustment may be needed.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully replace a serpentine belt in your vehicle. Regularly inspecting and replacing worn-out belts can help prevent engine accessory failures and ensure the proper functioning of your vehicle.

MethodsDetails
Gather Tools and MaterialsCollect the necessary tools and materials for the replacement process.
Locate the Tensioner PulleyIdentify the tensioner pulley's location, which is crucial for relieving belt tension.
Relieve Tension on the BeltRotate the tensioner pulley counterclockwise to release tension on the old serpentine belt.
Remove the Old BeltSlide the old belt off the pulleys, noting its routing for the installation of the new belt.
Install the New BeltRefer to the belt routing diagram and install the new serpentine belt correctly.
Apply Tension to the New BeltRotate the tensioner pulley counterclockwise to apply tension to the new serpentine belt.
serpentine belt
replace
vehicle maintenance