V-ribbed belt: common defects and their signs

1. Wear-out
   • Whistling sound under the bonnet when the engine is working.
   • At V-ribbed belt inspection you can notice that its deflection exceeds acceptable values.
   • Cracks and abrasions are seen on the component surface.
2. Breakage
   • Loud bang is heard from under the bonnet.
   • Battery charge alarm indicator is active.
   • The engine overheats because water pump stops working.
   • If a hydraulic power steering is installed in the car, then steering wheel rotation is troubled.

How to replace a V-ribbed belt

Service life of the V-ribbed belt depends on its proper installation and car operation conditions. Specialists recommend to check V-ribbed belt condition every 15 000 operational kilometers and replace it every 60 000 - 80 000 operational kilometers. If you notice any defect, the V-ribbed belt is to be replaced together with tensioner and idler pulleys.

Replacement of this component on modern cars is a rather laborious procedure so it is performed at a service station. In order to gain access to the component, special experience and tools are required because of complex engine construction and presence of additional equipment.

For older cars the replacement algorithm is simpler, you can perform this work on your own. First of all, you should consult the car owner’s manual because action sequence can vary for cars of different models. In most cases, to replace the V-ribbed belt you need to loosen a fastener on the alternator bracket, demount the pivot fastener, turn the alternator towards the engine, remove the old belt. A new component is mounted in the reverse order.