Not only does your car’s engine turn the wheels, but it also directly powers various accessories using the car belt, also known as the serpentine belt. This tough rubber belt can be expected to last 50,000 to 100,000 miles. Look out for the following six signs that your serpentine belt is on its last legs. If your belt is snapped or wearing too thin, you’ll need to visit your nearest Lexus dealer for a new one.
Deepened Belt Grooves
When you inspect your serpentine belt, study the grooves that allow it to grip the crankshaft and pulleys. Whereas the treads of a tire diminish in depth over time, serpentine belt grooves actually become deeper as the belt base itself becomes thinner. This deepening of the grooves reduces the friction between the belt and the pulleys, which will eventually cause the belt to slip.
You can use a serpentine belt groove tool to check your belt. You can buy this handy little tool at any auto parts store. Run it carefully along the belt’s grooves. The tool’s notches should fit the grooves perfectly, but if you see daylight at the bottom of the notches, your belt may be too worn down to keep using.
Excessive Cracks
Similarly to tire rubber, a few hairline cracks are harmless in the rubber of a serpentine belt. But if you see excessive cracks along the belt’s length and edges, the rubber is dried out and might break at any time. You’ll need to replace it.
Ask Your Local Lexus Dealer
It can be tricky to know if a serpentine belt is just starting to wear down or is too worn for further use. Whenever you visit your local dealership for vehicle servicing, you can ask them to glance at your belt, just to be sure.
Screeching Sounds
A belt that comes loose will often start to make a whining or even a loud screeching sound. This noise comes from the rubber running over the edges of the pulleys. If you hear it, your belt is probably about to break.
Engine Overheating
One accessory powered by the belt is your cooling system’s water pump. So if the serpentine belt slips off or breaks, your engine will rapidly start to overheat.
Battery Failing to Recharge
The alternator is another important part powered by the serpentine belt. If the belt comes loose, your alternator will stop recharging your battery. You might find you can’t start your car in the morning.
Heavy Steering
Serpentine belts also keep the power steering pump going. So if the belt breaks, you’ll find it a chore to simply turn the steering wheel when the car isn’t moving.
Have your belt inspected or replaced today at Lexus of Wilmington. We have a broad selection of high-quality vehicles and helpful, courteous staff.
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