Tools You'll Need:
* New serpentine belt: Make sure you have the correct belt size. Check your owner's manual or a parts store for the right one.
* Jack and jack stands: To safely lift the vehicle. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: For added safety.
* Wrench(es) and/or socket(s): Sizes will vary depending on your specific vehicle year, but you'll likely need wrenches or sockets to loosen the tensioner pulley(s).
* Ratchet and extensions: To make working in tight spaces easier.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Shop rags or paper towels: To clean up any grease or oil.
* Possibly a belt tensioner tool: Some tensioners require a special tool to release tension. Check your manual.
Steps (General):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Access the Belt: Locate the serpentine belt. You'll likely need to access it from the top or side of the engine bay.
3. Locate the Tensioner: Find the belt tensioner pulley. It's usually a pulley with a spring or hydraulic mechanism.
4. Release Tension: This is the most crucial and potentially tricky part. There are a few ways to release tension, depending on your vehicle's design:
* Manual Tensioner: May require a wrench or socket to loosen a bolt on the tensioner, releasing the tension on the belt.
* Automatic Tensioner: Might have a lever or ratchet mechanism that you need to carefully manipulate to release the tension. Consult your repair manual to determine the method. Some require special tools.
5. Remove the Belt: Once the tension is released, carefully slip the belt off the pulleys. It may help to use a pry tool (carefully) to assist in this process.
6. Install the New Belt: Route the new belt around the pulleys in the same path as the old belt. Make sure it's seated correctly on all the pulleys.
7. Release Tensioner: Slowly release the tensioner back to its normal position allowing the belt to engage.
8. Check Belt Routing: Double-check that the belt is correctly routed around all pulleys.
9. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.
10. Start the Engine: Start the engine and check for any squealing or other unusual noises. If you hear squealing, turn the engine off immediately and re-check your work.
11. Test Drive: After confirming that the belt is working correctly, take a short test drive to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Important Considerations:
* Diagram: A diagram showing the belt routing is essential. Your owner's manual should have one. Getting the belt routed incorrectly can cause damage.
* Tension: The belt must have the correct tension. Too tight, and it can put stress on the bearings and pulleys. Too loose, and it can slip. Your repair manual will often specify how to check tension.
* Pulley Condition: While you're there, inspect the pulleys and tensioner for wear or damage. Replace any that look worn.
This is a general guide. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and diagrams. If you're not comfortable doing this repair yourself, take it to a qualified mechanic. Improper installation can cause serious engine damage.
