Serpentine Belt Replacement

 

What is the part that needs repair, and what does it do?

The serpentine belt is a single belt used to drive many devices in the engine, like the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, air conditioning compressor, and more.

 

How did this part get damaged or worn on my car?  What is wrong with it?

The belt gets worn during its use. We can tell if it’s worn to the point of replacement by looking for cracks, stretching, and worn-down grooves. 

 

What other problems can this issue cause?

If your belt breaks, you will end up stranded and have to get your car towed to get the belt replaced, which would cost you upwards of $400 and a lot of time and stress. A stretched and worn belt also has less traction, which decreases mechanical efficiency, lowering the overall performance of the components it powers.