Can you drive a car if alternator belt?
The short answer is yes, your car will start even if the serpentine belt is broken or missing. To get the car going, the battery sends power to your starter motor. The starter motor provides enough power to get your engine moving and the combustion process started.
How much does it cost to replace alternator belt?
The replacement cost of an alternator belt is typically between $100 and $200. The part cost is between $25 and $80 while the labor cost is between $75 and $120. The true replacement cost will depend on how long it takes the mechanic to access your alternator belt.
What happens if you drive with a broken alternator belt?
A broken serpentine belt stops the alternator from generating power to operate the vehicle’s electric (and electronic) systems and recharge the battery. The headlights will dim, the radio will not work, and the battery will go dead!
What causes alternator belt to break?
Serpentine belts can fail in a few different ways. This is usually the result of a belt in poor condition, or a problem with one of the accessory components being driven by the belt. A failed bearing in a pulley being driven by the serpentine belt will also cause the belt to break.
Can you drive without an alternator belt?
If however, your vehicle’s coolant pump is driven by the serpentine belt, driving without the belt will overheat and damage the engine. The serpentine belt on all vehicles drives the alternator which provides power for the electrical system and likely also powers the power steering and air conditioning systems.
What does a bad alternator belt sound like?
Symptoms of a broken serpentine belt include loud slapping, squealing or knocking noises coming from under the hood. The battery-shaped charging system warning light might also come on because the alternator will stop charging the battery.
Is it easy to replace alternator belt?
Replacing an alternator belt is fairly easy; all you need to get started are the right tools. As always, when starting on a project, it is always a good idea to practice precaution. Make sure that the key is out of the ignition and that the negative battery cable is disconnected before you start.
What does a broken alternator belt sound like?
Symptoms of a broken serpentine belt include loud slapping, squealing or knocking noises coming from under the hood. The battery-shaped charging system warning light might also come on because the alternator will stop charging the battery. This causes the belt to start slipping from time to time.