What are the symptoms of belt slippage?
2 Answers
Symptoms of belt slippage: 1. If you hear a sharp squeaking sound, it may indicate wear or that the timing belt is slipping when turning the steering wheel while stationary or when the air conditioning is on. 2. The first method to check is by listening for sounds. During normal operation, the timing belt runs smoothly and should not produce any abnormal noises. Causes of belt slippage: After prolonged operation, the timing belt undergoes millions of twists and deformations, so severe wear is a normal occurrence. To extend the vehicle's lifespan, the timing belt should be replaced regularly according to the intervals specified in the vehicle manual. Structural defects in the timing belt can also shorten its lifespan, such as fine cracks, fractures, or cuts. If the timing belt is damaged due to normal wear, it should be replaced promptly to avoid affecting driving performance. Additionally, inflexible idler pulleys and guide pulleys can affect the condition of the timing belt. You can use a V-belt tool to measure the belt. When pressing down by hand, if the belt can be depressed within a range of about 10-20mm, it is considered normal and can continue to be used. However, this method is the simplest and can serve as a reference but should not be the sole basis for judgment.
Having driven for decades, I've seen quite a few symptoms of belt slippage. The most common is a persistent squeaking sound, like metal grinding, especially noticeable when starting the engine or accelerating. The steering suddenly becomes heavy, making it hard to turn the wheel, particularly at low speeds. When the air conditioning system is affected, the compressor stops working, leaving the car sweltering in summer. Worse yet, the water temperature spikes, with the dashboard warning light coming on, indicating a risk of engine overheating. Long-term neglect can lead to increased belt wear and potential breakage, leaving the car stranded on the road and requiring expensive repairs to engine-related components. I remind everyone not to underestimate these signals—addressing them early can prevent safety issues and extra costs. Regular checks of belt tension and wear are key.
