How to Replace a Serpentine Belt

What is a Serpentine Belt?The serpentine belt is aptly named for the way it snakes around the pulleys inside the engine bay. This long, winding rubber belt powers many of the important systems of your vehicle by transferring power from the engine’s crankshaft to the accessory pulleys. These pulleys rotate to power components like the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioner. In some cars, it even powers the water pump in the cooling system. Suggested AutoZone Products Serpentine Belt Belt Tensioner Tool How to Replace Your Serpentine Belt 1. Note the placement of belt Serpentine belts have that name for a reason. They snake in and out of a series of pulleys and peripherals, and the path they weave through is unique to your model vehicle. To preserve the belt’s position, take a few snapshots from different angles or sketch the way it winds through the engine. If the belt is already out of place, locate the driver’s manual or the under-the-hood placard, where you’ll find a sk...