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An idler pulley is expected to wear over time, and eventually the pulley will fail. Replacement intervals for idler pulleys vary, but are usually within the 50,000 to 100,000 mile range. Replacement often coincides with expected serpentine/accessory belt replacement periods.
Do idler pulleys wear out?
Like many automotive parts, the idler pulley becomes worn over time. The pulley spins against the belt wearing down both parts. This wear reduces tension which can lead to belt slippage. Even more noticeable is a cracked or damaged pulley or bearing.
What are the symptoms of a bad idler pulley?
Signs and Symptoms of a Bad Idler Pulley Chattering, Squealing, or Chirping Sound. Corroded Surface. Excessively Loose Idler Pulley. A Bad Idler Pulley May Spin Excessively. Slow to No Spin or Binding.
How long does a tension pulley last?
Most modern cars that roll off the dealer’s lot as a new vehicle will have a 60,000 to 100,000-mile life expectancy for the serpentine belt, tensioners, and idler pulleys.
How long can I drive with a squeaky idler pulley?
So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises. The car can still run for months or break after a few days.
How do you know if you need a new idler pulley?
Visual Clues of a Worn Idler Pulley Such wear decreases tension that can cause significant belt slippage. If the pulley or bearing is noticeably damaged, cracking, breaking, seizing, or otherwise coming apart, it is an indication that it requires prompt replacement.
How much does it cost to replace an idler pulley?
Idler Pulley Replacement Cost The cost to replace the idler pulley of your driver belt will usually be somewhere between $80 and $200. The cost for the new part should only be anywhere from $40 to $90, while the cost of the labor will be anywhere from $40 to $110.
Should I replace idler pulley and tensioner?
If there is any wobble, squeak, or undue friction, the idler pulley should be replaced. The best way to maximize the idler pulley’s lifespan is to maintain proper tension on the serpentine belt and replace belts with new ones whenever required.
Can a bad idler pulley cause vibration?
Grinding noises – Grinding and rumbling noises are another common sign of tensioner or idler pulley failure, usually due to failing bearings. Excessive tensioner movement – Worn-out coil springs can also cause drive belt tensioners to loosen their grip on the drive belt, resulting in excessive vibration and rattling.
When should a tension pulley be replaced?
You should expect to replace your belt tensioner in the 40,000-70,000 mile range. It is also customary to swap more than one part simultaneously, usually a worn-out pulley from other systems and even the serpentine belt itself.
When should a timing belt be replaced on a pulley?
SKF recommends replacing timing belts, tensioner and idlers at 60,000 to 80,000 miles to prevent unnecessary damage to your engine.
Do belt pulleys wear out?
As these belts wear out, they can begin to squeak or squeal. They make noise because there is not enough tension on the belt, or because the pulleys are misaligned or weak. Often, simply changing the belt will make it stop squealing. It’s best to inspect your belt regularly, and especially if it starts to make noise.
Why does my car squeal when idling?
Usually a squealing noise coming from the engine compartment during idle is an indication of a loose or worn out belt or pulley. However, it can also be a transmission issue if it’s low on transmission fluid or there is a blockage inside the transmission lines.
How much does it cost to replace a pulley and serpentine belt?
Of course, it depends on your make and model as well as labor costs, but in general a replacement serpentine belt costs around $70-$200 (plus taxes and fees), including around $50 for the belt and around $150 for the labor.
Is idler pulley covered under warranty?
The idler pulley is literally the only part ON THE ENGINE that isn’t covered under the Powertrain warranty.
How much does it cost to replace all pulleys?
It will cost between $125 and $380 to have your pulley replaced. The labor should cost between $45 and $155 and the parts should cost between $85 and $225.
Can an alternator pulley be replaced?
In many cases it is possible to remove and install the overrunning alternator pulley while the alternator is still on the engine. The plastic protective cap cannot be re-used after it has been removed from the pulley. A replacement cap is supplied with the new part.
Why is it called idler pulley?
The idler pulley is aptly named because it does just that: idles. Unlike drive pulleys, which are driven by a motor and a shaft, the idler pulley doesn’t turn on its own power. The crankshaft pulley, alternator pulley, power steering pump pulley, and the air compressor pulleys are all drive pulleys.
What noise does a bad idler pulley make?
Squealing. When the engine is idling, a bad pulley may make a squealing sound. This is due to the bearings in the pulley going bad. The bearings may also make various other sounds such as clattering or even a rumbling sound, making the vehicle sound as if there was much more wrong than a bad pulley.
Can a bad pulley cause your engine to shake?
As a result of a tensioner or tensioner pulley failure, the belt and pulleys may make high-pitched rattling or chirpy noises when they lose tension. In the event of a complete failure of the pulley bearing, it can also cause a grinding noise or a squealing.
