Often, we only give car parts a second thought when something goes wrong, but it’s crucial to understand what’s happening within the vehicle before an issue arises. This time, let’s examine the variations in drive belts, especially serpentine belt vs timing belt.
Why Drive Belts are Needed?
The sly response is “to drive,” but the mechanic explains that drive belts are a crucial component of your car’s engine. Drive belts deliver power from the crankshaft to other engine components, enabling you to start and maintain your engine. Let’s talk about the timing belt and serpentine belt, which are the two drive belts that are most widely recognized.
Is the Serpentine Belt the Same as a Timing Belt?
Not quite! Even though they are both necessary for your car, their functions are extremely different. The engine’s rotational energy is distributed to your alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning (AC) compressor through the serpentine belt, a long, winding belt. On the other hand, by synchronizing the crankshaft and camshaft, the timing belt makes sure that the intake and exhaust valves on your engine open and close at the appropriate times.
If you are still unsure about serpentine belt vs timing belt, please contact us at Fine Tuned Autos. Our expert car mechanics in North York will assist you.
What is a Serpentine Belt?
Often called the “accessory drive belt,” the serpentine belt powers several different parts of your vehicle. Its serpentine or snake-like route around different engine pulleys gives it its name. The serpentine belt powers your engine by joining the crank pulley to the auxiliary pulleys.
- Alternator that provides battery charging
- Power steering pump: improves steering responsiveness and ease of use
- The compressor of an air conditioner keeps your car cool.
- Your engine’s water pump is crucial to its cooling.
- Additional accessories, based on your car’s model and make
A serpentine belt is a long, looping piece of material that is use d to turn on motor-driven components or systems in cars. Usually made of rubber or a related polymer-based material. The serpentine belts in your car will rotate while the engine runs. The components and systems to which they are attached will thereafter be activated by this rotating motion. Knowing when to change a serpentine belt can be highly useful.
What is a Timing Belt?
Time belts are attached to crankshafts; they are found behind engines. The engine’s valves open and close as a result of the crankshaft turning the camshaft. The “teeth” on timing belts enable the belt to turn the crankshaft more efficiently. All cars have the same timing belt, even if the “pitch” may vary. The distance between teeth is known as the pitch. Although they are durable and long-lasting, timing belts can break. Your check engine light will most likely be on if your timing belt is damaged. It may seem as though your engine is revving randomly at times. You might also observe low oil pressure.
Serpentine Belt vs Timing Belt: What’s the Difference?
Serpentine belts and timing belts serve distinct functions. Timing belts are used to coordinate the camshaft with the crankshaft, whereas serpentine belts are utilized to activate motor-driven components and systems.
Function:
The timing belt’s function is to synchronize the crankshaft and camshaft(s), and it is situated close to the engine. It features rubber ribbing that is positioned evenly apart to control the opening and closing of the engine’s intake and exhaust valves. The serpentine belt, on the other hand, is a lengthy belt that resembles a snake and is located outside of the engine to deliver power to several devices. It is referred to as the auxiliary belt by some.
Materials
The materials that are used to make serpentine belts and timing belts differ from one another as well. Serpentine belts are usually composed of materials based on polymers or rubber. They have some elasticity and are velvety. Timing belts are reinforced with fiberglass, but they are still composed of rubber. Timing belts are stronger by nature than serpentine belts because of their fiberglass reinforcement.
Physical Characteristics
The two belts’ physical characteristics also differ significantly. The ribbing of a timing belt is horizontal and deep. In contrast, a serpentine belt features vertically oriented, thinner grooves. If your automobile is old and has a lot of miles on it, you need to use these belts with particular caution. They will eventually have to be adjusted.
Lifespan
Though they are designed to last for a long period, timing belts and serpentine belts have a limited lifespan. Manufacturers usually advise replacing them every 60,000–100,000 miles, approximately. Your car should always be inspected by a qualified mechanic at every service, even if it isn’t very old. If not, the belts may break and cause a number of issues. A broken timing belt is more problematic than a damaged serpentine belt. You must know when to change a timing belt. Even worse, if you’re not careful, a worn-out timing belt might cause catastrophic engine damage.
The Bottom Line
Although they are both necessary for the proper functioning of your car, the timing belt and serpentine belt have somewhat different functions. While the timing belt maintains the internal engine components in harmony, the serpentine belt keeps your car’s accessories operating properly.
Knowing how these two belts differ will improve your car’s upkeep and help you prevent unplanned repairs. You should search for “find a trustworthy auto mechanic near me” and get the belts changed if you see any damage. Fine Tuned Autos can help you with that. Contact us today.
