When do you need to replace a tensioner on a car?
Push down on the middle of the belt while the engine is off and the components are cool enough to touch. If you are able to push the belt down more than about an inch, the tensioner probably needs to be replaced. A good tensioner should be holding the belt snugly in place with enough resistance not to allow you to push it down that far.
How can I tell if my tensioner is bad?
These are definite signs that the tensioner needs replaced. Turn off the engine. Examine the serpentine belt for unusual damage. If your engine’s belt has broken or cracked grooves, is worn smooth or is fraying then the belt will need to be replaced. A bad belt tensioner is a likely cause of belt damage.
Do you have to replace the tensioner on a serpentine belt?
However, many people don’t know the spring-loaded automatic tensioner that keeps a serpentine belt tight is also a wear item. Consequently, the automatic tensioner may also have to be replaced when the time comes to change the belt.
Why is my belt tensioner not working properly?
Over time, due to age and heat, the belt will stretch out. As the belt stretches it can become loose, so the tensioner needs to adjust the belt as needed to keep it tight. There are two main types of belt tensioners. When a timing belt tensioner fails, it can result in a number of different symptoms. Symptom 1: Squealing, rattling, or chirping.
Push down on the middle of the belt while the engine is off and the components are cool enough to touch. If you are able to push the belt down more than about an inch, the tensioner probably needs to be replaced. A good tensioner should be holding the belt snugly in place with enough resistance not to allow you to push it down that far.
These are definite signs that the tensioner needs replaced. Turn off the engine. Examine the serpentine belt for unusual damage. If your engine’s belt has broken or cracked grooves, is worn smooth or is fraying then the belt will need to be replaced. A bad belt tensioner is a likely cause of belt damage.
However, many people don’t know the spring-loaded automatic tensioner that keeps a serpentine belt tight is also a wear item. Consequently, the automatic tensioner may also have to be replaced when the time comes to change the belt.
When to know if your belt tensioner is loose?
If the drive belt noise resembles a squeal or a squeak, it is possible that the belt tensioner is loose. This is especially the case when starting the engine first thing in the morning.