Back to all

Automotive Tips from Tuffy Grand Rapids: Serpentine Belt Overview

October 21, 2018

The technicians at Tuffy Grand Rapids know your serpentine belt drives important engine accessories like your alternator, air conditioning compressor, and power steering. In some cars it may also power the power brakes or water pump. The serpentine belt is powered by the engine and winds around pulleys and the accessories. Some cars in Grand Rapids have two serpentine belts.


The serpentine belt, the belt tensioner (which maintains the appropriate tension on the belt) and the idler pulleys are together known as the accessory drive system.

Now your serpentine belt and the belt tensioner will just wear out over time – that’s why your vehicle manufacturer has a scheduled belt replacement interval. The team at Tuffy Grand Rapids in Grand Rapids can inspect your serpentine belt for wear and get it replaced if it’s time.

Give us a call.

Tuffy Grand Rapids
610 28th St. SE
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49548
616.452.4425

 

More articles from Tuffy Grand Rapids (28th St.)

Mileage Headed Downhill? (What Causes Bad Fuel Economy?)

November 23, 2025

Name someone you know who enjoys spending a lot of money on gasoline. Yeah, me neither. Thats because it costs quite a bit to keep fueling your vehicle. One way to save money on gas is to get good fuel economy, and most of todays vehicles are designed to maximize your mileage. But you might f... More

If the Shoe Fits (Brake Shoe Replacement [Rear])

November 16, 2025

When it comes to brakes on your vehicle, we all know how important it is to keep them working well because they are vital safety equipment. After all, if you cant slow down and stop, you cant drive safely. While many vehicles use what are called disc brakes, theres another type of brakes that ... More

Don?t Blow Your Cool (Water Pump Replacement)

November 9, 2025

Its always a good idea to keep your cool, and thats especially true when it comes to some components of your vehicle. One is the engine. Its hot under that hood thanks to the mini explosions that are occurring in the internal combustion engine when its running. Your vehicle has a cooling syste... More