How to Replace a Car Engine Belt

Materials You’ll Need

• New engine belt
• Wrench
• Socket set
• Jack and jack stands

Safety First

• Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Allow the engine to cool completely before beginning work.
• Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from potential hazards.

Step 1: Locate the Engine Belt

• Open the hood of your car and locate the engine belt.
• The belt is usually located on the front of the engine, running between the crankshaft and the camshaft.

Step 2: Loosen the Tensioner

• Using a wrench, locate the tensioner pulley for the engine belt.
• Apply pressure to the tensioner to loosen it, which will create slack in the belt.

Step 3: Remove the Old Belt

• Once the tensioner is loosened, remove the old belt from the pulleys.
• Be careful not to damage the pulleys or the belt.

Step 4: Install the New Belt

• Align the new belt with the pulleys.
• Start by placing the belt on the crankshaft pulley.
• Then, work your way around the other pulleys, ensuring that the belt is properly seated in each groove.

Step 5: Tighten the Tensioner

• Once the belt is in place, tighten the tensioner pulley.
• Use a wrench to apply pressure to the tensioner until the belt is properly tensioned.

Step 6: Check the Tension

• Using a socket set, tighten the bolts that hold the tensioner in place.
• Use a belt tension gauge to ensure that the belt is properly tensioned.

Step 7: Reassemble and Test

• Reassemble all the components that you removed during the process.
• Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to check for any leaks or unusual noises.

Tips

• If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, it is recommended to take your car to a mechanic.
• Always refer to your car’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to replace the engine belt.
• Replace the engine belt at the recommended intervals specified by your car’s manufacturer.