Belts & Hoses
Belts
- Have accessory belts inspected by a certified professional at every oil change.
- Squealing noises should be checked immediately.
- Timing belt should be replaced according to manufacturer’s recommendations. Some vehicles have timing Chains. Most common recommended timing belt replacement intervals are 60,000 and 90,000 miles.
Accessory Belts
- Three typical types of accessory belt: V-type, serpentine, and toothed
- Must withstand high heat, stress, and shearing forces
- Require periodic adjustment (adjustable type)
- Automatic tensioner maintains adjustment (some vehicles)
Benefits of Properly Maintained Accessory Belts:
- Proper operation of accessories
- Passenger comfort
- Safety
Symptoms of a malfunctioning accessory belt/tensioner include squealing, poor electrical system operation at low speeds, overheating, loss of power steering, clicking or popping noise (tensioner failure).
Timing Belt
- Toothed or ribbed construction
- Synchronizes engine valves and piston movement
- May also operate water pump (some vehicles)
- Periodic adjustment should be made (some vehicles)
Benefits of Properly Maintained Timing Belts
- Prevents premature engine failure!!!
Symptoms of a broken or slipped timing belt include engine dies or will not restart, low power/sluggish operation, and bent valves or damaged pistons (interfering engines).
Hoses
Your car has both Radiator/Heater Hoses and Radiator Hoses. Radiator/Heater Hoses provide convenient transfer and routing of coolant to the heater core. They are constructed of reinforced rubber compounds. Radiator Hoses (Upper/Lower) provide convenient transfer and routing of coolant from the internal combustion engine to the radiator. They are constructed of reinforced rubber compounds.
Benefits of Properly Maintained Hoses:
- Longer cooling system component life
- Prevent loss of coolant