Spring is a great time to make sure your vehicle is properly maintained. Make sure to bring it in for regular maintenance inspections. This way we can inspect the parts and components, as well as the belts. The belts help to ensure the vehicle is working at top performance levels.
The belts are needed in order to keep the vehicle operating properly. All vehicles have an accessory belt that drives features such as the alternator and air-conditioning compressor, power steering, and water pump. This belt is usually mounted externally so you can see it on the front end of the engine. It is usually a serpentine belt that goes around various pulleys. It needs to be replaced when it shows wear, such as cracks, fraying, or stretching.
The timing belt is hidden from view but connects the crankshaft on the bottom of the engine to the cylinder head on the top and controls the valves when they open and close. A timing belt does require replacement. If either belt breaks, a vehicle is going stop almost immediately. Once a timing belt breaks, the engine shuts off and you will not be able to restart it. With many vehicles, you might be able to restart the engine after an accessory drive belt breaks.
You may hear warning signals that an accessory belt is on its last legs such as squealing noises when you start the engine or accelerate, or rattling noises from a pulley or tensioner. Make sure to schedule an appointment with us and we can inspect the vehicle and belts for you. This can help you to have a pleasant driving experience.