Posted on 9/26/2025
The serpentine belt may not look like much, but it’s a very important component under the hood. It wraps around several pulleys and powers critical systems like the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioning compressor, and in some cars, the water pump. Without it, those systems stop working almost instantly. A worn-out serpentine belt can hold on for a while, but if it breaks while you're driving, the results can be immediate and severe. In some cases, you’ll be able to coast to a stop. In others, your car may stall, overheat, or become impossible to steer. Early Signs Your Serpentine Belt Is Wearing Out Like most parts in your engine bay, the serpentine belt doesn’t fail without warning. There are a few common signs that point to trouble. You might hear a high-pitched squeal during startup or while turning the steering wheel. You may notice flickering lights or a battery warning on your dashboard. Sometimes, there’s visible wear ... read more