Get your serpentine belt & timing belt checked at 5 Star Auto Repair.
We offer Serpentine belt replacement & timing belt services for all cars & engines.

What They Do

The serpentine belt and timing belt perform different functions. 

The serpentine belt (also called drive belt, fan belt, or accessory belt) transfers power from the crankshaft to the engine accessories. These accessories include the:

• Alternator
• Water pump
• Air conditioning compressor
• Power steering pump (power steering)

On the other hand, the timing belt keeps the crankshaft and camshaft in sync. It maintains the ignition timing by ensuring that the engine valves (intake and exhaust valves) move in time with the pistons. 

They’re Location

The serpentine belt is located in front of the engine block, while a timing belt will be behind the engine under the timing cover. 
The serpentine belt is easily visible when you pop the hood. It winds around several mechanisms in front of the engine. However, the timing belt isn’t easily visible, and it takes significant effort to access it. 

What Are The Symptoms Of A Bad Serpentine Belt Or Timing Belt?

Here’s how to tell whether you have a failing serpentine or timing belt: 

 Serpentine Belt

You may notice symptoms like:

• Belt wear: A visual inspection of the belt will reveal damage, like cracking, fraying, or glazing.
  
• Strange noises: A failing belt may slip while running, causing a squealing or chirping sound.
  
• Performance loss: Serpentine belt slippage can cause a loss of accessory functionality (like power steering, air conditioning, and battery failure) or a stalled engine.
  
• Engine overheating: Like other accessories, the water pump may stop working and cause the engine to overheat.
  
• Illuminated Check Engine Light: Because a damaged or misaligned serpentine belt will cause engine issues, it may trigger the Check Engine Light. 

Timing Belt

Signs of timing belt failure include:

• Odd noises: Since the timing belt is connected to several pulleys, it may make a rolling or ticking noise as parts of it start to wear out.
  
• Rough idle: If the timing belt is worn or missing a few teeth, it could slip and cause the ignition timing to run out of sync. This may result in a rough idle or stalling.
  
• Low oil pressure: A worn timing belt’s teeth can break off and fall into the oil pan, causing a drop in the engine oil pressure. If not addressed in time, this could lead to reduced lubrication of the internal combustion engine and even complete engine failure.
  
• Loss of engine power: If the timing belt slips off its pulleys or snaps, the engine may lose power or misfire since the engine valves won’t open and close in time.
  
• Lit Check Engine Light: A failing timing belt will trigger the Check Engine Light as soon as it starts affecting your engine performance.

These warning signs aren’t always obvious indicators of belt failure. So, it’s best to stay on track with maintenance schedules and have the serpentine and timing belt inspected when getting any engine service.