What happens if you don't replace belt tensioner?

Over time, the belt tensioner will lose its capacity to apply tension to the serpentine belt. Sometimes, the mechanism will weaken or seize up from repetitive use. Other times, the pulley itself can warp, crack, or throw a bearing. This often results in a noticeable squeaking noise from the front of the engine.

Is it necessary to replace the timing belt tensioner?

Unlike the timing belt itself, the tensioner doesn't necessarily have a manufacturer's recommended change interval. In almost all cases, the timing belt tensioner should be replaced at the same time as the timing belt which is generally between 75,000 and 100,000 miles.

What happens if belt tensioner fails?

When a timing belt tensioner fails, it loses tension. As a result, the timing belt becomes loose and the valve timing can be thrown off. This leads to engine performance issues. So if any suspicion arises that the timing belt tensioner has failed, it's important to check the tensioner and replace it if necessary.

Can I drive without belt tensioner?

If your vehicle has a bad belt tensioner, you should not drive it. A bad belt tensioner is reason enough to perform some DIY mechanical work on your own or consult with an experienced mechanic for assistance.

How long can you drive with a bad tensioner pulley?

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 to Diagnose a Loose or Stuck Belt Tensioner on Your Car or Truck

What sound does a bad belt tensioner make?

Grinding or squeaking noise from the belts or tensioner

The most common symptom of a bad or failing drive belt tensioner is noise from the belts or tensioner. If the tensioner is loose the belts may squeak or squeal, especially when the engine is first started.

How much does it cost to replace a belt 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. Taxes and fees are not included in the estimate.

How much does it cost to replace a drive belt tensioner?

The average cost for drive belt tensioner replacement is between $235 and $267. Labor costs are estimated between $80 and $101 while parts are priced between $155 and $166. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your specific vehicle or unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.

Can a bad tensioner cause a car not to start?

During a loose belt tensioner, a part of your camshaft and crankshaft is unable to be synchronized with its counterpart. The fuel and air mixture in the chamber will not be ignited by this, therefore. The computer will sound after turning the key inside the ignition, but is unable to engage the engine during that time.

Can I drive with a loose belt?

A loose drive belt can compromise your vehicle's ability to power accessories like power steering, air conditioning or your alternator, or could possibly even cause internal damage to the motor.

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.

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.

Will a broken timing belt destroy my engine?

As your vehicle gets older and accumulates miles, its timing belt wears out and becomes compromised. While timing belt replacement is a simple service to perform, if a worn out timing belt snaps, it can seriously damage your engine and cost you thousands.

What does a drive belt tensioner do?

The purpose of your drive belt tensioner is to apply the correct amount of tension to your drive belt. This helps to keep the drive belt in place, preventing it from slipping or coming off (from not enough tension), and also preventing premature wear to the accessories that it drives (from too much tension).

Should I replace belt tensioner when I replace serpentine belt?

Chances are, you'll replace the serpentine belt at least once before you have to replace a tensioner. In most cases, you'll replace the belt several times before the tensioner. But every time you replace the belt, you should check the tensioner.

What is the lifespan of a serpentine belt?

On average, serpentine belts should last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. However, if you're only putting a few thousand miles annually on your vehicle, don't use that mileage interval as the sole guide for when to replace the serpentine belt.

Is it OK to drive with a bad pulley?

So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises. The car can still run for months or break after a few days.

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.

Can loose belt cause engine to shake?

Misadjusted or worn out timing belt and other belts just as the serpentine belt can cause engine vibrations. If these belts have become loose or worn out then they can also cause other parts of your engine such as fans to not operate properly – resulting in strange noises and shaking.

Can a bad belt cause rough idle?

Poor Driving Experience

So if you have searched for answers to the question, can a bad serpentine belt cause rough idle? The answer is yes.

How long does it take to replace a tensioner?

Introduction. Automatic belt tensioners, standard in most cars now, make changing a serpentine belt a simple DIY repair. Follow the clear photos and step-by-step instructions and you'll be done in 15 minutes.

How long does it take to change a pulley?

If you are doing the job at home, give yourself about four hours to change all the parts. You will need the following tools and parts: Replacement idler pulley.

How much does it cost to get a pulley fixed?

Idler Pulley Replacement Cost

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.