How to Check Your Car's Drive Belt
The drive belt turns the alternator, power steering pump, water pump and A/C compressor. If it breaks, the battery stops charging and the engine can overheat quickly.
Signs it needs replacing
- Squealing or chirping noise, especially at start-up or in rain.
- Cracks across the ribs, fraying edges or missing chunks.
- Shiny, glazed or hardened surface.
- Battery light, overheating or heavy steering.
How to check
- Switch off the engine and let it cool.
- Look at the belt with a torch, bending it slightly to open any cracks.
- Check the tension: it should not feel loose or slack.
- Check pulleys for wobble or noise.
⚠️ Safety: Keep hands, hair and clothes away from the belt when the engine is running. If the belt breaks, stop the car immediately.
Replace belts according to your manual (often between 60,000 and 100,000 km) or earlier if worn.
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