Does Your Kia Need to Replace a Car Engine Belt?

Your car has several different belts that control various functions. One of the most important is the serpentine or alternator belt. This belt connects the crankshaft to a series of pulleys. Over time a car belt can wear out or get damaged, and you’ll need a replacement. As your Kia dealer, we can swiftly fit a new belt for you. These are a few of the signs that you’re going to need a replacement belt fairly soon.

Signs You Need a New Car Belt From Your Kia Dealer

Your Belt Looks Worn

The alternator belt is a long belt made from tough ribbed rubber. It connects the crankshaft to several different pulleys. Each pulley is connected to a vital system like the alternator and the AC compressor. As the crankshaft turns, this movement causes the belt to run at high speed across a series of pulleys that spin in response. The spinning pulleys then power their attached component.

If you pop the hood, you can see the belt as it meanders through your engine. If you look closely, you might see cracks or other damage to the belt. Cracks are dangerous, as a crack in the rubber belt can widen and the belt could snap. A snapped alternator belt will cause your car to stop immediately as the alternator switches off. Our technicians can replace the belt to fix the problem.

Screeching Noises From the Engine

High-pitched screeching noises aren’t pleasant, especially if they’re coming from the engine bay. The most likely cause of the noise is a worn or damaged alternator belt. This belt is strong and designed to last, but like other components, it will eventually wear out. On average, an alternator belt will last for 40,000 to 100,000 miles.

The screeching can be due to a worn or loose belt or a jammed pulley. If the belt runs over a jammed pulley, it can catch against the metal. The friction generated each time the belt rubs against the pulley will cause additional wear on the belt. A loose belt can also cause screeching noises as it will run outside its track.

Frequent Stalling

The alternator belt powers the alternator, and your alternator is responsible for providing all the electrical power for your engine. A loose or damaged alternator belt can run slower than it should, and this reduced speed will affect your alternator.

If your alternator doesn’t spin fast enough it will produce less power. The lack of power due to a worn or loose belt can cut off electricity to the spark plugs. If the spark plugs lose power, your engine will stall.

If you suspect your alternator belt may be worn or damaged, call us right away at Kelly Grimsley Kia.

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