Loss of Power Steering or Air Conditioning As the serpentine belt drives the power steering pump and air conditioning compressor, a failing belt can result in a sudden loss of power steering assistance or reduced cooling capacity from the air conditioner.
Yes. If the fan belt is lose, the compressor pully may slip and will not run in full capacity and will affect the output.
Older vehicles use v-belts, which generally only run the AC compressor. As the name suggests, it is V-shaped and narrow. Newer vehicles use serpentine belts, which are flat and ribbed to run all the engine components, including the drive belt.
While a bad serpentine belt might not directly affect the engine's ability to accelerate, it can indirectly impact performance. If the belt fails and the alternator stops charging the battery, the resulting electrical problems could affect the vehicle's overall performance, including acceleration.
Diminished Performance and Other Symptoms
Some serpentine belt issues may not cause your vehicle to stop running or overheat, but they can create other symptoms that point to belt failure. You may notice a loss of performance, power steering failure, sudden battery drain, or a loss of air conditioning.
Belt damage is a common issue with air-conditioning systems, as the belt plays an integral role in keeping the system running smoothly.
As we mentioned early, a serpentine belt delivers power to your alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor.
Your compressor can seize, causing the belt to snap.
Noises coming from the engine compartment
A squealing belt, a whining power steering pump, a worn out pulley, brake pads in need of replacement. If, on inspection, you hear chattering, whining, squealing, chirping, or rattling sounds coming from the AC compressor, it is time for AC service.
Visible Cracks and Wear
Regular visual inspections of the serpentine belt can reveal important information about its condition. If you notice cracks, fraying, or signs of wear on the belt's surface, it's a clear indication that it needs replacement.
Technically, you can drive your vehicle - but, ideally, to the nearest auto repair shop or back home to fix the issue yourself.
Of course, like any other rubber component, your car's serpentine belt can eventually wear out. When that happens, you'll want to replace the belt right away to avoid a breakdown and additional repairs. Expect to pay somewhere between $150 and $250 if you want a professional to replace your serpentine belt.
A worn-out drive belt can put extra strain on the AC compressor, leading to compressor failure. If the drive belt is too tight, it can strain the compressor, and if the belt is too loose, it can slip off completely.
AC BELT REPLACEMENT PRICING
The average cost to replace your AC belt is $58 - $126.
When the belt slips or breaks, your car's functions, such as the alternator and power steering pump, will likely stop working. A failing belt may also damage the parts it powers. Dealing with a broken belt or hose is bad enough, but if your engine becomes damaged, it's even worse.
If your serpentine belt breaks, all of these systems will shut down and your vehicle will overheat. An unfamiliar noise or screech from the engine compartment is just one indication that your belt could be frayed, split, or worn out.
A serpentine belt replacement is an essential part of routine auto maintenance, but it doesn't have to be difficult. Get the parts you need from AutoZone.
Power Steering and AC Not Working
If the serpentine belt is not functioning properly, it can prevent the power steering pump and air conditioning compressor from operating.
A serpentine belt, also known as a fan belt, is a crucial operational component of many modern internal combustion engines. It's a single, long belt that wraps around pulleys in the engine, connecting and driving multiple engine accessories, allowing them to function correctly.
The serpentine belt is a long rubber belt that transports power to the engine accessories—the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor and (sometimes) the water pump. Sometimes the serpentine belt is called a drive belt, fan belt or accessory belt.