How do I know if my tensioner pulley bearing is bad?

Grinding or squeaking noise from the belts or tensioner

If the tensioner is loose the belts may squeak or squeal, especially when the engine is first started. It is also possible for the tensioner pulley or bearing to wear out, in which case the vehicle will produce a grinding noise from the pulley.

How do you test a pulley tensioner?

What happens if the tensioner pulley fails?

When the tensioner or tensioner pulley fails, the loss of tension can cause the belt and pulleys to make high-pitched rattling or chirping noises. If the pulley bearing completely fails, it can also cause a squealing or even a grinding noise. Symptom 2: Knocking or slapping.

Is idler pulley same as tensioner?

Tensioners: The Main Differences Explained. The primary distinction between tensioners and idler pulleys is the presence of an adjustable bolt. Tensioners are positioned on the bolt through mounting. Idler pulleys are not mounted to an adjustable bolt.

When should I replace my tensioner pulley?

You should expect to replace your belt tensioner in the 40,000-70,000 mile range. It is also customary to swap more than one part simultaneously, usually a worn-out pulley from other systems and even the serpentine belt itself.

How To Locate A Noisy Idler Pulley

Can you drive with a bad tensioner pulley?

Driving with a bad belt tensioner is unsafe since the tensioner is meant to guarantee ample tension that powers accessories. Wear on the belt tensioner will eventually cause the belt to slip, generate loud noise, and also create an unsafe level of heat along the accessory pulleys.

Can a bad tensioner cause loss of power?

Hi Brandon. Typically a damaged belt tensioner will not impact vehicle performance. It would cause the serpentine or drive belt to wear prematurely or to squeak - but not cause the acceleration issue.

Is the tensioner pulley supposed to spin?

Checking the Tensioner

Spin the pulley to see if it spins freely. If you hear grinding or the pulley doesn't spin freely, replace the tensioner. When you replace the belt, it should take a lot of muscle power to move the tensioner. If you can move it easily, the spring tension is most likely not tight enough.

Is the tensioner pulley supposed to move?

The tensioner arm should move smoothly and freely. Solution: If you notice a binding, sticking or grinding tensioner arm, the tensioner should be replaced.

Can a bad tensioner cause rough idle?

A bad belt tensioner can cause your vehicle to stall, since it is intended to ensure ample tension for accessories to run. As a result of belt tensioner wear, the belt will eventually slip, generate loud noise, and create an unsafe level of heat in the accessory pulleys.

What problems can a bad tensioner cause?

Many of the engine's accessories, such as the alternator, water pump, and AC compressor, can be belt driven. A seized or loose drive belt tensioner can cause the belt to snap, which will disables those accessories and can cause problems such as overheating, a dead electrical system and battery, or a disabled AC system.

Can a bad belt tensioner cause rough idle?

Yes, a timing belt can cause rough idle.

How much does it cost to replace tensioner pulley?

You will pay anything between $125 and $380 for a full idler tensioner pulley replacement cost. The parts can cost as much as $225 and as little as $85. The labor cost should range between $45 and $150.

What causes a belt tensioner to go bad?

The most common causes of timing belt tensioner failure include: Wear and tear: On a new mechanical timing belt tensioner system, the timing belt tensioner spring is wound tightly by two tension rods. Over time, the spring stretches out and loses its tension. As a result, the entire tensioner becomes too weak.

How long can you drive on a bad pulley bearing?

In some cases, you will be able to safely drive for tens of thousands of miles before you notice any drops in performance. But, it takes only one slip of the belt for the engine to lose momentum and for you to lose control over the vehicle.

How much does it cost to replace a pulley bearing?

The cost to replace the idler pulley of your driver belt will usually be somewhere between $80 and $200. The cost for the new part should only be anywhere from $40 to $90, while the cost of the labor will be anywhere from $40 to $110.

How long do tensioner pulleys last?

The Owner's Manual Says that It is Time

Most modern cars that roll off the dealer's lot as a new vehicle will have a 60,000 to 100,000-mile life expectancy for the serpentine belt, tensioners, and idler pulleys.

Can a bad belt tensioner cause vibration?

Grinding noises – Grinding and rumbling noises are another common sign of tensioner or idler pulley failure, usually due to failing bearings. Excessive tensioner movement – Worn-out coil springs can also cause drive belt tensioners to loosen their grip on the drive belt, resulting in excessive vibration and rattling.

What is tensioner bearing?

A tensioner bearing consists of a base, tensioner arm, spring, and pulley. It provides pressure to a timing belt that drives other pulleys while easing the strain on that belt.

How much is a tensioner?

The average cost for a drive belt tensioner replacement is between $211 and $239. Labor costs are between $73 and $93, while parts are priced between $138 and $146.

Why is my tensioner shaking?

Why Is My Belt Tensioner Shaking? Wobbling of Belt Tensioners When belt tensioners fail, they tend to get noisy. It is often an indication that the belt tensioner is worn out and needs to be replaced if it chirps or makes other noises.