What happens if I spill coolant on my engine?
If you spill undiluted antifreeze on a hot engine, it could start a fire. The fumes could also be toxic especially in a confined space such as a garage.
Why did the serpentine belt on my car break?
If the engine got too hot due to the water pump not turning, coolant could have escaped, thus explaining the fluid (if it is coolant). It’s possible you just need a new serpentine belt but the car has to be checked for seized components driven by the serpentine belt in case that accounts for the belt having broken in the first place.
Is the water pump driven by the serpentine belt?
Another important device driven by the serpentine belt is the water pump. This is not always the case as on a lot of cars the water pump is driven by the timing belt. You should have this in mind so you don’t falsely “accuse” the serpentine belt for overheating.
What does the battery warning light mean on a serpentine belt?
There are two “glow levels” of the battery light if you have a serpentine belt problem: Fully glowing and comes up in a moment’s notice This is the case if the belt snapped or fell off. The battery warning light comes up because the alternator has completely stopped working as there is no rotation.
Why does my serpentine belt make a screeching sound?
The belt slides over a motionless pulley causing extensive friction, heat and the recognizable sound. The screeching sound may also be caused by a severely worn out serpentine belt (in this case, it must be nearly pulverized).
Why is coolant leaking from my serpentine belt?
Coolant leaking from the weep hole means it is time for a new water pump, but it also may indicate that the water pump bearings are worn. If the water pump is leaking, check the serpentine belt for signs of fluid contamination.
Another important device driven by the serpentine belt is the water pump. This is not always the case as on a lot of cars the water pump is driven by the timing belt. You should have this in mind so you don’t falsely “accuse” the serpentine belt for overheating.
What kind of car has serpentine belt problems?
If a belt problem still isn’t solved after doing all of the above, your car may have a specific problem unique to that make and model. Certain vehicles have known serpentine belt problems, such as 1996–2000 Chrysler-built minivans with the 3.0-, 3.3-, and 3.8-liter engines.
What to do if your serpentine belt is making a noise?
Belt noises can be diagnosed with a spray bottle of water. With the engine running and the sound audible, lightly mist the grooved side of the belt with water. If the noise disappears or lessens, but then shortly returns, the problem is probably a misaligned pulley.