What is a serpentine belt? Hyundai vehicles are equipped with a serpentine belt, also known as a drive belt. Serpentine belts have replaced other types of belts because a single belt is more compact, less expensive to replace and simpler to install compared to multiple belts. By “snaking” around the various pulleys, both sides of a serpentine belt can grip and be used to drive components in the engine, such as an alternator, power steering pump, water pump, and air conditioning compressor.
How long do serpentine belts last? Generally, serpentine belts last around 5 years to be 100,000 kilometers before replacement becomes necessary. Belt wear is difficult to see by just looking at the belt. Our Hyundai Certified Technicians can measure the depth of the grooves in the underside of the belt to determine whether the belt should be replaced.
How is this corrected? Serpentine belts that show chunking or cracks need to be replaced immediately, as they will soon fail. Serpentine belt failure typically means loss of engine cooling, loss of battery charging, loss of power steering assist, and loss of air conditioning. In short, a belt failure means a severe vehicle breakdown.
Is it time to schedule a Serpentine Belt Replacement? If your Hyundai has been on the road for 5 years or 100,000 kilometers, it’s time for a serpentine belt replacement. Having this service performed by a Hyundai Certified Technician will ensure long engine life and safe, peace-of-mind driving for years to come.