Serpentine belts are used on most engines to turn the water pump, alternator, power steering and air- conditioning compressor, so if the belt snaps, you may be stranded.

Older cars use individual V-belts for these various accessories. A blown hose could result in an overheated engine and can cause additional engine damage.

It’s not easy to know the true condition of a belt or hose by its outward appearance, because most belts and hoses fail from the inside out.

Rubber hoses can become hard and brittle, deteriorating with age and exposure to extreme temperatures, causing the hose to split, blister or leak. Belts also break down with heat, usage and age.

Every time a belt passes around a pulley, it bends. Flexing produces heat that causes the rubber to harden over time. If the belt is loose or slips, the wear process can be accelerated.

Learn more about Belts & Hoses

There are many areas involved in performing service on a vehicle's belts and hoses.

• Hoses should be checked annually for age hardening (or softening) by pinching. Any hose that feels rock-hard or mushy may be due for replacement. Leaking, cracks, blistering or any other visible damage on the outside of the hose also indicates a need for replacement.
• The clamps should be replaced when new hoses are installed.
• V-belts and serpentine belts should be checked for looseness, cracks, frays or glazing.
• Replace the timing belt every 80,000 to 160,000 kilometers or based on the interval specified in the owner’s manual. Interference engines can sustain significant and costly damage if the timing belt breaks.
• It may be recommended during serpentine belt service/ replacement to also replace tensioners, pulleys or the water pump.

Please refer to our vehicle maintenance chart for more details on the recommended schedule for maintenance.

To schedule maintenance on your vehicle's belts and hoses, please locate and schedule an appointment with the Active Green + Ross Complete Tire & Auto Centre nearest you.