Tools You'll Need:
* New serpentine belt: Make sure you have the correct belt for your specific engine (e.g., 2.2L, 2.4L).
* Socket wrench and sockets: To loosen/tighten the tensioner pulley.
* Wrench (or ratchet): For potentially loosening accessory brackets (depending on accessibility).
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Possibly a belt tensioner tool: While not always strictly necessary, a belt tensioner tool can make the job significantly easier. These tools either hook onto the tensioner or use a leverage point to compress it.
* Shop rag: To clean up any debris or grease.
* Vehicle repair manual: This is essential!
Steps:
1. Consult your repair manual: Find the diagram showing the correct serpentine belt routing. This diagram is critical; getting the routing wrong can damage your engine.
2. Locate the belt tensioner: This is a pulley with a mechanism to create tension on the belt. It's usually near the alternator or power steering pump.
3. Loosen the belt tensioner: This is the most challenging part. You'll likely need to use a wrench or socket to loosen the tensioner. Some tensioners have a bolt that you loosen to release tension; others require pushing or turning a lever. Your repair manual will show how your specific tensioner works.
4. Remove the old belt: Once the tension is released, carefully slip the old serpentine belt off the pulleys. Start with the easiest pulley to access.
5. Inspect the pulleys and idlers: Look for wear, damage, or cracks. Replace any components showing significant wear.
6. Install the new belt: Starting with the tightest pulley (usually around the crankshaft), carefully guide the new belt onto each pulley, following the routing diagram *exactly*. Take your time and ensure the belt is properly seated on every pulley.
7. Tighten the belt tensioner: Once the belt is on all pulleys, slowly tighten the tensioner back to its normal position. You should be able to easily twist the belt about a half inch between pulleys. If it's too tight, you could overstress the belt or damage the tensioner. If it's too loose, it will slip.
8. Double-check the belt routing: Before starting the engine, carefully check the routing one last time to make sure the belt is on all the pulleys correctly.
9. Start the engine: Listen for any squealing or slipping noises. If you hear any, immediately turn off the engine and re-check your work.
10. Check the tension after a short drive: After a short drive, check the belt tension again to ensure it hasn't loosened.
Important Safety Notes:
* Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Use jack stands to secure the vehicle safely.
* Disconnect the negative battery terminal before beginning any work.
* Wear safety glasses.
* Use the correct tools and techniques. Improper techniques can lead to injury or damage to the vehicle.
If you are uncomfortable performing this repair, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly installing the serpentine belt can lead to serious engine damage.
