BELTS AND HOSES
The drive belts and hoses on your car degrade over time because they are made
of rubber. Healthy belts and hoses can prevent costly problems. So let’s take a
closer look.
Drive Belts
Drive belts today have a serpentine design, which means one belt runs multiple
components. Typically, one belt can drive the water pump, alternator, power
steering pump, emissions air pump, vacuum pump, or whatever vehicle
configuration exists. The automatic belt tensioner maintains the tension on the
serpentine belt. It is a spring-loaded idler pulley that presses against the back of
the belt and keeps it properly adjusted. Exposure to extreme temperature
changes, contamination from leaking engine fluids, and roadway contaminants
contribute to the breakdown of the rubber that makes up the belt. Regular belt
inspection is critical to make sure that the components it drives are operating
properly for maximum performance. When a crack, rip, or tear in the belt is
evident, replace it immediately. Failure of this critical component will leave you
stranded on the highway.