An S-Belt Connects Many of Your Car’s Essential Components
A serpentine belt (or s-belt for short) is a rather inexpensive part that is absolutely essential to your vehicle’s overall operation. The belt is named serpentine belt because it is a long belt that “snakes” around many core parts of your car including the crank pulley, an idler pulley or two, the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning and sometimes your water pump. The belt is used to keep these components running smoothly and effectively and is absolutely vital to a working car.
How Often Should I Replace my S-Belt?
Serpentine belts are quite durable and last for a long time. However, they do wear and require replacement every so often. Typically an average s-belt will last for 60,000 to 100,000 miles. An aging belt can show signs of wear, fraying, cracking, or may have a shiny look to it. If you haven’t had your belt replaced in over 60,000 miles, or have bought your vehicle used relatively recently, you should bring it into your local AAMCO Minnesota today for an inspection.
Generally replacing a serpentine belt is an inexpensive process. The part is a simple long belt that typically runs in the $20 to $80 range. Labor costs are also inexpensive as this replacement only takes about an hour or two. If you have concerns about the health of your s-belt or other car related needs we highly recommend scheduling an appointment today at your nearest AAMCO!
What do I do if My Serpentine Belt Breaks?
Older and worn belts can unexpectedly snap, leaving your vehicle inoperable until it is replaced. This will cause everything from your power steering pump to your alternator to stop functioning, making your vehicle completely inoperable. Not only will you be unable to use your car until the belt is replaced, this can cause irreparable damage to the parts that the belt is connected to. Don’t get stranded or end up with a much larger repair bill over an inexpensive and very common issue. Get your serpentine belt inspected right away.
If your belt has already broken don’t try to start or move your vehicle. You’ll need to have it towed and inspected to determine if anything else has been damaged in the process. Luckily your repairs may be eligible for FREE TOWING within 10 miles at many of our local AAMCO locations. Find the nearest one to you and give them a call right away.
AAMCO Minnesota is Your One Stop Shop for Honest & Affordable Total Car Care
Finding a mechanic you trust is important, and sometimes not easy. It can take time and might involve some trial and error, but it does help to know some basic car care information when you are looking for your next mechanic. Let us help you with every from a recurring automotive tuneup to major transmission repair work. We are the car care experts!
AAMCO represents a national family of trust and expertise with over 50 years of transmission repair and automotive repair and maintenance experience. At AAMCO Minnesota, our mission is to provide the best auto repair and maintenance in Minnesota.
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