Drive Belt Symptom Chart

DRIVE BELT SYMPTOM CHART

Problem	Possible Cause	Action
Drive Belt Cracking	Drive belt.	System OK
Drive Belt Chunking	Drive belt.	Replace the drive belt See COOLING SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS & DRIVE BELT ROUTING article in Engine.
Drive Belt Noise or Squeal	Drive belt. Pulley(s).	Determine what area of the pulley(s) the noise is coming from, then check that area with a straightedge and look for the accessory pulley(s) to be out of position in the fore or aft direction, or at an angle to the straightedge
Drive Belt Does Not Hold Tension	Drive belt cracking or damaged.	Inspect the drive belt for cracking parallel with and through to the backing. Replace the drive belt if required. See COOLING SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS & DRIVE BELT ROUTING article in Engine.
Drive Belt Does Not Hold Tension	Belt tensioners worn or damaged.	Check the belt tensioner for damage and correct operation. Replace the drive belt tensioner if required. See REMOVAL & INSTALLATION in 2.5L 4-CYLINDER article in Engine, REMOVAL & INSTALLATION in 3.0L V6 article in Engine, or REMOVAL & INSTALLATION in 4.9L V6 article in Engine
Drive Belt Squeal or Chirp	Incorrect drive belt installed.	Check the drive belt for correct part application.
	Lubricant or other contamination on the drive belt.	Check the drive belt for oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid or other contamination. Remove the drive belt and wash with detergent and water. If the drive belt cannot be cleaned or is damaged (softened) by contamination, replace the drive belt.
	Drive belt pulleys not aligned properly, damaged or not rotating freely.	See COOLING SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS & DRIVE BELT ROUTING article in Engine. Check the pulleys for proper alignment, devices and pulleys for proper freedom of rotation and damage. Service the pulleys and devices as required