Serpentine Belt Tension Inspection

Serpentine Belt Maintenance & Tension Inspection

The serpentine belt is vital for vehicle performance and reliability. It takes engine power and delivers it to drive-belt accessories so that they can get their jobs done, including the air conditioner, power steering, battery charging system, and engine cooling system. The best way to get reliable performance for longer from the serpentine belt is with routine serpentine belt and tension inspections.

The Tensioner Explained

The serpentine belt has a tensioner pulley designed to place the precise amount of pressure, or tension, on the belt as it snakes around the accessory pulleys delivering energy. The serpentine belt’s tension is not only vital for its performance but is critical to how long the belt will last. This is because improper tension can wreak havoc on the belt’s physical integrity.

Improper Tension Causes Rapid Belt Wear

Rapid wear & tear occur when the serpentine belt does not contact the accessories’ pulleys at factory specifications. The #1 culprit of shorter serpentine belt life is improper tension. This can be caused by simple tensioner loosening or belt stretching.

What are the Warning Signs of Serpentine Belt Tension Trouble?

Improper tension that should be fixed with a tension inspection cause these problems:

• Noise – squeaking or grinding noises from the engine bay at the engine’s front where the tensioner and belts are located.
• Unusual belt wear – uneven belt wear with areas wearing faster, fraying, excessive cracking, or rib separation.
• Accessories fail – a/c compressor, alternator, power steering, and water pump.