What is a tensioner pulley?

Tensioner pulleys provide precise guidance and constant belt tension in the belt drive. They can either be mounted rigidly or combined with the tensioning elements to belt tensioners. Tensioner pulleys increase the wrap angle on belt drives and thereby transmit higher performance.

How much does it cost to replace a 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.

Is a tensioner the same as a pulley?

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.

Can you drive with a broken 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.

What happens when a tensioner pulley goes bad?

If the drive belt tensioner pulley has any sort of issue it can cause unusual and accelerated wear on the belt. A bad pulley can cause fraying on the edges of the belt, and in severe cases can even cause it to break. Other symptoms of a bad belt tensioner is failure of the belt driven accessories.

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

What causes a pulley to break?

Improper Tension

If a belt is not tensioned properly, it will ride too loose or too tight on the pulley. A belt that's too loose on a pulley will cause slippage, which leads to heat build up from friction. This heat will damage your rubber belts and cause the belts to crack and break.

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.

How long does a tensioner pulley 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.

How do you know when to replace a belt tensioner?

Appearance: Cycle the tensioner (mounted on the engine) through the entire range of motion (from stop to stop) by applying torque to the arm with a wrench. 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 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.

How long can you drive with a bad idler 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.

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 a pulley cost to fix?

The total price to replace an idler pulley can range between $80 and $200. This range includes the cost of the new part as well as the cost of labor. Typically, the auto parts cost ranges from $40 to $90, and the labor costs about $40 to $110.

What causes tensioner pulley to break?

The belt can break due to a number of reasons, but the most common is age. One other common problem is the belt tensioner. If the tensioner is bad, it can cause the belt to come loose or cause the pulley to seize, making the belt come off.

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.

How many tensioners does a car have?

There are three main types of belt tensioners found in the replacement auto parts market. Each one works a little differently, but all ensure that your alternator and auxiliary pumps receive the power needed to keep your car or truck moving.

Is it hard to replace a belt tensioner?

Serpentine belt replacement is easy because today's automatic drive belt tensioners eliminate the need to loosen bolts or pry components into position for retensioning. Just rotate the tensioner, remove the old belt and install a new one.

How long does it take to replace a serpentine belt and tensioner?

It can take anything from 15 minutes to an hour (two at the most) to repair or replace a bad serpentine belt with a new belt.

How do you fix a tensioner pulley?

Turn the pulley bolt counterclockwise with a ratchet and a socket. Remove the bolt, the retaining washer and the pulley. Replace the pulley, washer and bolt and tighten to specified torque illustrated in the repair manual. Replace the tensioner in the engine and replace the bolt.

What is pulley noise?

Belt and pulley noise is usually a screeching sound that has a repetitive pattern screeching on each revolution. The screech can be caused by a worn out belt or by the pulley attached to an engine accessory that is starting to freeze up.

How much does it cost to replace a pulley and serpentine belt?

The Average Cost to Replace a Serpentine Belt Is $58 to $126 Depending on if You Go to the Mechanic or DIY. This price range is based on national averages for all vehicles and does not factor in taxes, fees, or your particular make and model. Related repairs or maintenance may also be needed.

Why is my car squeaking when I drive slow?

Why does my car squeak when driving slowly? Brake pads and discs that have been fitted poorly or are worn down will often cause a squeaking noise when you drive slowly. When you press the brake pedal, the brake caliper clamps around the pad, applying pressure to slow down the movement.

Why do I hear a squeaking noise when I drive?

Loose or worn belts are a common cause of vehicle squealing. An old or failing alternator can make squealing sounds. If your car squeaks or squeals while turning the steering wheel, it's probably the steering system. Brakes squealing is their friendly way of telling you it's time to get them serviced.