- Transmits power through and to the alternator, power steering pump, and A/C compressor
- Also known as a fan or accessory belt
- Replace when cracked, frayed, peeling, or malfunctioning
Your Nissan's motor depends on various complicated, interrelated parts that get you the characteristic Nissan drive you can't live without. Many Engine components connect through a network of belts, and the Serpentine Belt is among the most important ones.
Your Nissan's Serpentine Belt is a strong, continual belt that transmits power through and to the power steering pump, alternators, A/C compressors, and, sometimes, to the water pump, too. Some refer to the Serpentine Belt as the accessory or fan belt because it powers your Nissan's peripheral devices. However, you shouldn't underestimate its importance.
Serpentine Belts are usually made of ultra-sturdy rubber engineered to withstand the friction and heat involved in transferring energy from one engine component to the next. But, like other car parts, Serpentine Belts are subject to wear and tear.
With age, Serpentine Belts can fray or crack or they can malfunction if they become soaked due to oil or coolant leaks. Additionally, they can slip, lose tension, or become misaligned due to faulty tensioning mechanisms, which may necessitate Serpentine Belt and tensioner replacements, or recalibrating the belt, if possible. A few signs that you might have Serpentine Belt problems include: weird rattling noises coming from the engine, lackluster A/C or power steering performance, engine sweltering, and apparent signs of wear like cracks on the belt.
In general, your Nissan Serpentine Belt is one of your most long-lasting parts, but its life can be cut short due to lack of maintenance, oil leaks, and other issues. You should inspect your Serpentine Belt any time you change the oil, or get a professional inspection from a Nissan service center in your area.
The required method for a Serpentine Belt replacement depends on the type of tensioner you're dealing with. Consequently, it's best to check your Nissan's manual before replacing the Serpentine Belt yourself.
In most cases, you'll need a Serpentine Belt replacement that fits your Nissan model and year, and a specialized belt-tensioning tool. If your Nissan has a hydraulic or manual tensioner mechanism, getting a Serpentine Belt replacement at a Nissan service center near you is highly recommended.
Once you're all set up, snap a photo of your belt's current placement and of how it winds around the motor's different parts. Then, use a ratchet to release the tensioner and gently unravel the Serpentine Belt, taking care not to mess with any accessories.
Once the old Serpentine Belt is out, inspect it for signs of coolant or motor oil leaks, cracks, and damage to pinpoint issues that go beyond-the-belt! Re-thread a new Serpentine Belt in the old one's place and release the tensioner, using a wrench to tighten it to the appropriate level. Lastly, turn the engine on and idle it while you observe the new belt's operation to ensure it is installed correctly.
Whether you choose to DIY your Nissan Serpentine Belt replacement or visit an authorized Nissan service center, ensuring proper fitment of all your replacement parts is crucial. Order genuine Serpentine Belts made for your Nissan model and year directly from Nissan Parts & Accessories! Purchase a new Nissan Serpentine Belt guaranteed to fit your Nissan Frontier. See the What This Fits tab for more details.
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