What is a serpentine belt on a Subaru?

A serpentine belt is an essential component of a Subaru vehicle’s engine. It is responsible for driving various engine accessories, such as the alternator, AC compressor, water pump, and power steering pump. The health and performance of the engine depend on the functionality of the serpentine belt.
The serpentine belt is a durable component that can generally last for 50,000 miles or more. However, over time, it may wear out and start to slip, which can cause the accessories to perform poorly. If you notice poor performance from the accessories or other symptoms like squealing noises or reduced power steering, it may indicate a failing serpentine belt.
To ensure the proper functioning of the serpentine belt, it is recommended to follow the replacement schedule mentioned in the Subaru owner’s manual or consult a Subaru service center for the specific replacement schedule for your vehicle.
If you need to purchase a new serpentine belt for your Subaru, you can find genuine OEM Subaru belts from authorized Subaru dealers or online retailers that specialize in selling genuine Subaru parts. It is important to ensure that you are purchasing a genuine OEM part to ensure proper fit and quality.
Please note that availability of parts may vary, and it is advisable to confirm the availability before placing an order.
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Can I drive with a bad serpentine belt?

Despite its unassuming appearance, this integral part keeps multiple components of your vehicle running smoothly, including the alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. Ignoring the signs of a worn serpentine belt can lead to severe engine damage and compromise your safety on the road.

Is serpentine belt the same as alternator belt?

No engine is complete without the serpentine belt. The serpentine belt, also known as the alternator belt, is one of the better-known engine belts, along with the timing belt. It gets its name because of its shape, and how it snakes around your engine.

How often do you change serpentine belt on Subaru?

50,000 to 100,000 miles
It’s not uncommon for a new Subaru serpentine belt to last for 50,000 to 100,000 miles, but this can still vary on factors like the model and trim of your vehicle. However, exposure to heat and friction breaks them down over time.

Is it easy to replace serpentine belt?

Replacing the serpentine belt is as simple as threading it into position, cranking the tensioner and slipping the belt over the tensioner pulley, or nearest pulley up top. Belt tensioners are mostly spring tension. Once installed, the spring retains pressure to the belt.

How much does it cost to fix a serpentine belt?

But, what does a serpentine belt replacement cost? The cost of the serpentine belt itself could be around $50 and the cost of labor could be around $150. As a result, a serpentine belt cost for replacement could range from $70 to $200 depending on your exact model and where you get it replaced.

How much does it cost to replace a serpentine belt?

The average cost for serpentine belt replacement is between $109 and $134. Labor costs are estimated between $57 and $72, while parts range between $52 and $62. Whether you go to the mechanic or do it yourself, replacing a serpentine belt costs $58 to $126.

What are the symptoms of a bad serpentine belt?

Bad serpentine belt symptoms

• Squeaking, squealing or chirping sound from under the hood of the car.
• Check engine light or battery light is illuminated on your dashboard.
• A/C isn’t working.
• Power steering isn’t working.
• The engine’s temperature is high or overheating.
• Smell of burnt rubber.

Is it worth replacing serpentine belt?

While modern serpentine belts can run for over 100,000 miles without any visible wear, even as little as a five percent material loss leads to belt slippage and increased wear and tear. That’s why professional technicians recommend replacing serpentine belts every 50,0000 to 60,000 miles.

How much does it cost to replace serpentine belt?

Whether you go to the mechanic or do it yourself, replacing a serpentine belt costs $58 to $126. The price of a serpentine belt starts at around $25 and goes up to $75 at most. It typically takes about an hour to replace the serpentine belt, and if you know some car repair basics, you could change the belt yourself.

What happens if serpentine belt is worn?

If your serpentine belt breaks, all of these systems will shut down and your vehicle will overheat. An unfamiliar noise or screech from the engine compartment is just one indication that your belt could be frayed, split, or worn out.