Belts and Hoses

Your car's belts and hoses are essential to the cooling, air conditioning and charging systems, and the engine. Don't take these routine replacement intervals for granted because they can break down and leave you stranded.

The timing belt keeps the crankshaft and camshaft mechanically synchronized to maintain engine timing. Whether serpentine, V-belt or fan belt (the belts on the outside of the engine), they all transmit power from the front of the engine to accessories that need to be driven, such as the air conditioning, the charging system and fans. Radiator and heater hoses carry coolant to and from the engine, radiator and heater core.

Typical wear and tear, key items that affect the replacement interval for belts and hoses:

Vehicle age
Electrolytic corrosion
Mileage
Belt tension
Oil contamination
Failed hose clamps

Symptoms:
Squeaking noise from under the hood during start-up or operation
Coolant leaks
Dashboard light will illuminate
A/C system may fail
Engine overheating