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When should one change a drive belt in 1997 Buick Regal with 13K miles?

A 1997 Buick Regal with only 13,000 miles is exceptionally low mileage. The drive belt is likely still in excellent condition. You shouldn't need to replace it based solely on mileage alone.

Instead of replacing it based on mileage, inspect the belt regularly. Look for:

* Cracking: Small cracks are normal, but larger, deep cracks indicate wear and impending failure.

* Fraying: Similar to cracking, fraying edges show significant deterioration.

* Glazing: A shiny, smooth surface suggests slippage and impending failure.

* Wear: Uneven wear or obvious thinning are warning signs.

* Proper Tension: The belt should have the correct tension (check your owner's manual for specifications). Too loose or too tight is problematic.

If you see any of these signs during your inspection, *then* it's time to replace the belt. Otherwise, with such low mileage, it's probably fine for many more years. However, a visual inspection every 3-6 months is recommended as a preventative measure.