Some cars have two drive belts. However, most modern cars have just one, a serpentine belt. It is a rubber belt with reinforced ribs that powers your car’s alternator, air conditioner, power steering, cooling system, and other systems.
The drive belt often doesn’t need maintenance and can last up to 150,000 miles. Of course, they won’t last indefinitely, and your car won’t move if they stop working. Because of this, you should have routine inspections and replace your drive belt as soon as you see any issues.
Some people think that belt replacement service is expensive. It’s actually affordable, especially if you bring your vehicle to Motorwerks BMW in Bloomington, MN. We also offer auto service coupons, allowing you to save more. To schedule a service, call or send us a message.
So how can you tell if you need to replace the drive belt? Below are some signs.
You Hear Strange Noises
The most obvious sign that you have a drive belt issue that shouldn’t be disregarded is the presence of strange noises. It’s time for an examination if the serpentine belt on your vehicle is screeching.
Perhaps there is only water on the belt, which is not a serious problem. Expect some squeaking if you’ve been driving through heavy rain. However, it’s a very different story if the squeak is due to leaked or spilled motor oil. Instead of waiting until the inevitable damage compels you to replace the belt, make sure you don’t have any leaks and have a professional repair the belt immediately.
Your Drive Belt Is Worn
Your belt will typically begin to exhibit wear before it breaks. It’s not always the end of the world if some ribs facing the pulley are absent. Many belts can still work effectively if a few parts are missing.
Replace the drive belt immediately if there are numerous missing sections or if several notches appear close to one another. It’s a catastrophe just waiting to happen. You may have a misaligned belt if one side wears out unevenly. The pulley may be the source of this issue.
Of course, there are signs that the drive belt needs a replacement, such as cracks and decay. Any crack in the belt that extends farther than halfway through must be quickly repaired.
Don’t risk it if your drive belt is ruined. You might be able to travel for miles without incident or be stuck on the side of the road. A broken belt can seriously harm other parts of your car in the worst situation. It is always advisable to replace your drive belt when in doubt. Call Motorwerks BMW immediately if you notice any of the above signs.
If you need a drive belt replacement service in Bloomington, MN, you should go to Motorwerks BMW. Our services won’t break the bank. We also offer auto service coupons so you can get more savings.