Should I replace serpentine belt when replacing alternator?

The serpentine belt is a long rubber belt that transports power to the engine accessories—the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor and (sometimes) the water pump. This is why it is so important to get your serpentine belt replaced on a regular schedule.

Will a bad serpentine belt cause alternator problems?

One of the most overlooked maintenance items on vehicles are serpentine belts. Once the belt is worn, it will have less surface area contact with the pulley and begin to fail or make noise. Also, a worn belt will not properly seat into an alternator drive pulley, so it may not carry the full output of an alternator.

What else should be replaced when replacing alternator?

When replacing and alternator, other upgrades are worth doing too. Go ahead and change the serpentine belt, tensioner and idler roller when replacing an alternator on your car or truck.

Why would a new alternator belt break?

The most serious failure is when the serpentine belt breaks completely. This is usually the result of a belt in poor condition, or a problem with one of the accessory components being driven by the belt. A failed bearing in a pulley being driven by the serpentine belt will also cause the belt to break.

What does a new alternator cost?

In some models, they can run as low as $180 and for premium vehicles, they can run over $1,000. The average cost is approximately $500. It is common that the alternator will fail due to worn out contact rings and carbon brushes, or problems with voltage regulator.

Can you drive with a broken alternator belt?

It is best to not drive a car with a broken belt, even for a short distance. Get the car towed or get a mechanic to come to the car to replace the belt. Everything it turns will stop working. Power steering, AC, alternator, and most importantly, the water pump.

What does a broken alternator belt sound like?

Symptoms of a broken serpentine belt include loud slapping, squealing or knocking noises coming from under the hood. The battery-shaped charging system warning light might also come on because the alternator will stop charging the battery.

What do I need to replace my serpentine belt?

I just got my serpentine belt replaced and it’s squealing when I start the car and sometimes when I hit the gas what is this do I need a fan belt?? My car has 134000 miles.

Why is my alternator belt still squealing after replacing?

For instance, the alternator works optimally with the serpentine belt connecting it to the engine pulley, enabling the alternator to turn together with other belt-driven components in your car. Belt or pulley misalignment is a common issue that causes changed serpentine belt still squealing.

Can a belt be removed from a car alternator?

The alternator actually pivots around the lower bolt, so you can remove the belt. The other bolt will be in a slot not a round hole, and the position of the bolt in the slot adjusts the belt tension. You didn’t tension the belt enough when you refitted the alternator.

How can I increase the tension on my serpentine belt?

Increase the tension on the belt. If your vehicle does not have an auto tensioner, insert a pry bar or piece of wood between the alternator and the engine. Run the belt over the alternator pulley, then use the bar to pry the alternator away from the engine and increase the tension on the belt.

When should you replace the serpentine belt?

Most serpentine belts need to be replaced every 40,000 to 70,000 miles. If there are signs of the belt rubbing on something, make sure to identify and repair whatever it was rubbing on to avoid damaging the new belt.

What are the symptoms of a bad serpentine belt?

Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Serpentine/ Drive Belt . Common signs include a squealing noise from the front of the vehicle, power steering and AC not working, engine overheating, and cracks on the belt.

What is the average life span of a serpentine belt?

The lifespan of the serpentine belt will depend mostly on the type of material it’s made of. Older style belts generally last about 50,000 miles, while those made from EPDM can last up to 100,000 miles.

Why is my alternator squealing?

Alternators don’t squeal. They can hum, but a squeal is caused by a slipping belt. A “hum” can be caused by a bad alternator bearing or burnt diodes.