Every Land Rover is designed for adventure, but like any other vehicle, it has some vital parts that it cannot do without. One of these important components is the serpentine belt. The serpentine belt is a single belt that runs through the different pulleys and accessories in your Land Rover’s engine. The belt’s role is to transfer power from the crankshaft of the engine to other devices such as the alternator, power steering, and air conditioning.
While older vehicles required multiple belts for these purposes, most current models of Land Rovers employ only one, which is convenient but also makes it indispensable. If the belt wears out or breaks, these systems will fail, and you will end up with an SUV that will not drive as it should, or may not even start at all. So, how do you know when to replace it so that it will not leave you stranded? Continue reading to find out when you should have your belt checked, and where to go!
Signs That Your Serpentine Belt Needs to Be Replaced
- Squealing Noises: If there are instances where you hear a squealing sound when you start your Land Rover, or while driving, then this can be a sign that the serpentine belt is slipping. This is usually as a result of wear and tear, development of cracks, or misalignment, and it is an indication that the belt is almost worn out.
- Cracks on Belt: The condition of the serpentine belt can be determined just by observing its surface and appearance. If the belt looks like it is cracked in some sections, it appears frayed, or seems shiny and glazed, then it is time to replace it. While one can continue to use a belt that is worn out, it is just a matter of time before it breaks.
- Power Steering or Air Conditioning Problems: Since the serpentine belt drives the power steering pump and the AC compressor, you may experience issues with these systems if the belt has a slipping or failing issue. If the wheel becomes hard to turn or the air conditioning is weak, the problem could be with the serpentine belt.
- Overheating of the Engine: The serpentine belt is also used to run the water pump which helps to cool the engine. If the belt is worn out or broken, then the water pump will not be able to operate effectively and this can make your SUV engine overheat.
- Battery Warning Light: If this light turns on while driving, it can mean that the charging system is not working and it can be caused by a slipping or a broken serpentine belt. Since the alternator relies on the belt to generate power, a faulty belt means that your battery cannot be charged, and this can leave you stranded.
When Do You Need to Replace the Serpentine Belt of Your Land Rover?
It is impossible to give an exact duration for changing a serpentine belt because replacement intervals vary with the model of your Land Rover, driving conditions, and the type of belt installed. However, most manufacturers suggest that the serpentine belt should be replaced between 50,000 and 100,000 miles. Even if your belt looks fine, it is wise to replace it before it becomes a cause for concern. A faulty serpentine belt can result in no power steering, a problem with the vehicle’s engine, or a drained battery, which are all inconvenient when encountered on the road.
Let Our Experts Help With Your Belt Replacement
At Crowne Automotive, we pride ourselves 
in providing the best services for your Land Rover vehicles. If you have any signs that your serpentine belt is failing or you need an expert to check it for you, then you are at the right place. Our shop in Hummelstown, PA provides automotive service to drivers from Lebanon, Hershey, Harrisburg, Camp Hill, Palmyra, Lancaster, Elizabethtown, Mechanicsburg, Carlisle, and York. We will examine your serpentine belt carefully, look for signs of tear or any problems with the tension and then install a superior belt to ensure your Land Rover runs smoothly. Contact us by calling or sending a message through the appointment form on our website.