Snake in the Engine (Serpentine Belt)

March 12, 2023

There's a belt that snakes through your engine. It's even named for a snake, the serpentine belt. It'll bite you when it breaks, possibly leaving you stranded. So, it's good to know a little about this snake-like belt. In early engines, there were lots of belts. They were used to convert the r... More

Automotive Tips from Melvindale Car Care: Serpentine Belt System Wear

April 10, 2022

The primary job of the serpentine belt for Melvindale drivers is to provide important traction to spin the accessories. As the belt wears it loses some of its grip and the accessories may not spin at optimal speeds. For example, if your alternator doesnt spin fast enough, the battery will not com... More

Automotive Tips from Melvindale Car Care: Serpentine Belt Tensioner

December 31, 2018

The serpentine belt tensioner applies pressure to the serpentine belt, maintaining optimal tension to drive the accessories like the alternator and A/C compressor. At Melvindale Car Care we know that the service life of the belt tensioner is the same as the belt itself, so they should always be r... More

Automotive Tips from Melvindale Car Care: Serpentine Belt Overview

October 8, 2018

The technicians at Melvindale Car Care know your serpentine belt drives important engine accessories like your alternator, air conditioning compressor, and power steering. In some cars it may also power the power brakes or water pump. The serpentine belt is powered by the engine and winds around ... More

Melvindale Car Care Auto Service and Maintenance Videos: Serpentine Belt Tensioner

January 13, 2016

The serpentine belt tensioner applies pressure to the serpentine belt, maintaining ideal tension to drive the accessories like the alternator and A/C compressor. The service life of the belt tensioner is the same as the belt itself, so they should always be replaced together. A worn... More