What happens when serpentine belt goes bad?

The serpentine belt, called a transmission belt, is a belt that works on the pulleys inside the automotive engine and idler pulley, tensioner, and accessory drive belt system. The serpentine belt provides power for air conditioning, alternator, power steering, and sometimes cooling system water pumps. The serpentine belt is a key part of the system, so the serpentine belt determines whether the engine operates properly.

What happens when serpentine belt goes bad

If the serpentine belt breaks, the engine will not run and the machine will stop working. Therefore, if the serpentine belt works for a certain length of time, it should be regularly inspected. If the following conditions occur, the serpentine belt may fail.

1. Scream from the front of the vehicle

If your car squeals, there may be a problem with the serpentine belt. Caused by slipping or misalignment of the serpentine belt.

2. Power Steering and AC Power Inoperative

If the serpentine belt completely fails and breaks, your car will be damaged. After a fracture, power steering will be lost, the air conditioning will not work, and the engine will not be able to cool as it should. If the power steering fails while the vehicle is moving, it may cause serious safety problems. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly inspect the belt.

3. Engine overheating

A failed belt can cause the engine to overheat because the water pump does not rotate. Once the engine starts to heat up, it can lead to vehicle malfunction and engine damage.

4. Cracks and wear on the belt

The serpentine belt has cracks, missing blocks, wear, rib separation, uneven rib wear, and rib damage. If any of these problems are found, the drive belt needs to be replaced.

The above is about what happens when serpentine belt goes bad. The serpentine belt needs regular maintenance, otherwise the engine may be damaged, leading to a car strike. This website provides various types of belts, manufacturers can contact if necessary.