There are hundreds of moving parts that keep our vehicles functioning. With this many moving parts, it’s not uncommon for things to wear out and need to be replaced. You should know the signs that you need a new car belt so that the professionals at your INFINITI Service Center can keep your vehicle running in peak condition.
Your vehicle has two main belts that need to be inspected for wear. The first is your serpentine belt. The serpentine belt in your car is a long continuous belt that moves multiple pieces in your engine. These pieces include your alternator, power steering pump, water pump, and air conditioning compressor. If this belt breaks, none of these systems can function.
The second belt that you need to inspect routinely is your timing belt. Your timing belt keeps your camshaft and crankshaft in sync. This keeps your engine valves working and your engine functioning as it needs to. It is vital to ensure these belts are replaced before they break so they do not cause severe damage to your vehicle’s engine.
Age
A good rule of thumb to follow for replacing your belts is to check your owner’s manual for the recommended replacement time. Most serpentine belts should last between 60,000 to 100,000 miles or between 7 and 10 years. Do your best not to go over this window even if the vehicle is not experiencing any issues yet. Instead, get into your dealership to have the certified technicians check your belt for issues.
Visible Damage
You should routinely check your engine compartment to ensure you don’t see any visible damage. If your belt appears worn, get it checked by a professional. A belt can develop cracks or lose small chunks of material over time. If you see large cracks, you may also notice that the internal threads of the belt can be seen. If you notice any signs of damage or wear, be sure that you visit your dealership soon so that they get you an appropriate replacement.
Sounds
When a belt begins to wear or starts slipping, it will often emit a screech or high-pitched squeal. If you notice sounds coming from your engine compartment, check the serpentine belt for damage, fraying, splitting, or glazing. If you notice visible damage, get it in to have the belt replaced. However, even if you can’t see visual issues, get your vehicle to a mechanic so that they can diagnose the problem.
Benefits of a Dealer
When you visit your dealership, you know you will get quality craftsmanship and OEM parts. The certified technicians at the dealership have experience and access to the best machines and technology on the market. They also have many OEM parts on hand, so you will not have to wait while a part is shipped to the shop.
If your car makes unusual noises or has mechanical issues, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact us at DARCARS INFINITI of Greenwich and schedule an appointment with our certified service department today.
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