1. Park the vehicle on a flat surface and turn off the engine. Allow it to cool down completely.
2. Open the hood and locate the fan belt. I may be located near the front of the engine, wrapped around the fan and several pulleys.
3. Identify the tensioner pulley or adjustment mechanism that controls the belt tension. This typically resembles a small wheel or lever with a spring or bolt.
4. Using the appropriate tool, such as a wrench or socket set, loosen the tensioner pulley or adjustment mechanism to relieve tension on the fan belt.
5. Once the tension is released, remove the old fan belt by carefully slipping it off the pulleys. Be mindful of the serpentine belt routing diagram if applicable, as it often printed near the engine bay in newer Mazda models.
6. Compare the old fan belt to the new one to ensure they are the same length and have the same number of ribs or grooves.
7. Install the new fan belt by looping it over the pulleys in the same routing pattern as the previous one.
8. Re-tension the fan belt using the tensioner pulley or adjustment mechanism. Follow the manufacturer's recommended tension specifications, typically found in the owner's manual.
9. Verify that the fan belt is properly seated on all the pulleys and there is no slack or excessive tension.
10. Close the hood and start the vehicle to test the new fan belt. Listen for any unusual noises or vibrations.
Remember that fan belts should be inspected periodically for cracks or wear, and replaced when necessary. If you are not comfortable with replacing the fan belt yourself, it's best to consult a professional mechanic or refer to the vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and cautions.
