Ford Belts

If a part moves in your vehicle, there's a belt to help it do so. In fact, your ride would be considerably more difficult -- and much less pleasant -- without the belts playing their role.

What are the Types of Belts?

Of course, there are the seat belts that secure you and your passengers. However, there are three other types of belts used in your car, SUV, pickup, or van. They're the timing belt, serpentine belt, and drive belt.

The timing belt helps the camshaft and crankshaft operate in sync with one another, allowing the valves and pistons to pump at the proper intervals. If your timing belt fails, your engine will stop running almost at once. If you drive a newer model, though, your vehicle may feature a more durable timing chain instead of a timing belt.

Serpentine belts team with the crank pulley, idler pulley, and tensioner to run such parts as the alternator and power steering. Drive belts, also known as V-belts, run off the crank pulley and help manage thewater pump, radiator fan, and other parts.

When Should You Replace Your Vehicle's Belts?

Consult your owner's manual for your recommended maintenance schedule. Typically, timing belts should be replaced between 60,000 and 90,000 miles. A timing chain can be expected to serve for the engine's full lifetime, though. Check your serpentine and drive belts for cracks and shallow grooves after roughly 60,000 miles of service, with plans to replace them before 90,000 miles.

How do You Recognize Failing Belts?

It's important to know the signs that your belts are going bad. They include:

• Frayed belt edges
• Cracked belt material
• Overly loose or slack belts
• Belts that are too tight

Where Can You Buy Genuine OEM Belts Online?

The best belts for your vehicle are the ones that your manufacturer designed for it. Find yours right here in our online auto parts catalog, in stock and priced right. Buy today and we'll get your order shipped out right away!