If your car is equipped with a serpentine belt, it's important to know the signs of a belt that needs to be replaced. Here are four symptoms of a worn out serpentine belt:
1. Squealing Noises
One of the most common signs that your serpentine belt needs to be replaced is squealing noises coming from the engine bay. The squealing noise is caused by the belts' ribs beginning to wear down and no longer making proper contact with the pulleys. If you hear this type of noise, it's important to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible so that you can avoid more serious engine damage down the road.
2. Cracks and Fraying
Another symptom of a worn-out serpentine belt is cracks or fraying on the surface of the belt. Over time, exposure to heat, oil and other elements can cause the belt material to break down and crack. Once cracks start to form, it's only a matter of time before the belt completely fails and snaps. Inspect yourbelt regularly for any signs of cracking or fraying and replace it if necessary.
3. Engine Overheating
One of the most serious consequences of a worn-out serpentine belt is engine overheating . The Serpentine Belt drives several components in your engine including the water pump . If the water pump isn't working properly , it can cause coolant to stop circulating throughout your engine which will lead to overheating . Another component driven by the Serpentine Belt is t he power steering pump . If this stops working , you may notice increased resistance when turningthe steering wheel . This can eventually leadto complete loss offunctionalityand may even cause damage to other parts inyour system . In short , don't ignore any warning signs that yourSerpentined Beltmay be failing - Replacingit sooner rather thanlater could saveyou alotof moneyand hasslein th long run !