Your car can't move without it. If it breaks, your car will not work and can quickly be damaged. It will overheat. Your air conditioning will stop. Your power steering won't work, even if you push the car forward. The drive belt is a small but important component.

Function

The drive belt's primary role in your engine is to power the steering system, water pump, air conditioner and alternator. Not only can your car not drive without it, but it will rapidly overheat and can lead to damaged heads, serious car troubles and engine failure.

Location

The drive belt can be located in the engine easily. Facing the engine, it's a large belt running around several round metal pulleys. Most car hoods have a diagram of the pulley placement, including routing for the person who wants to change the belt.

Types

There are different types of drive belts. Cars have either a V-shaped belt, with a cross section that looks like a V, or more commonly, a serpentine belt. The serpentine belt usually has a texture or grooved design that looks like several Vs in the surface. These help grip the pulleys the belt is responsible for turning.

Prevention/Solution

To prevent car troubles due to a bad drive belt, it's recommended you inspect it periodically for frayed edges, cracking and other damage. This is relatively simple to do and can save your car from severe damage. Warning sounds include a screeching sound, especially on cold mornings, or when making a sharp turn. Other symptoms are when the components powered by the drive belt seem to be faulty dimming lights, loss of power steering and lack of air conditioning.

Expert Insight

DMV Car Care Clinic says studies show "that the chances of a drive belt failure rises dramatically after four years or 36,000 miles for V-belts, 50,000 miles for serpentine belts." Any unusual symptom of squealing--or a sign of slipping, fraying, cracking or a glazed look from a rubber belt getting worn--should be noted and the belt promptly replaced. Drive belts are a relatively cheap part on an expensive motor.

Source:

2 Car Pros

DMV Clinic Car Care Center

Resource:

Car Talk