Staying on top of regular maintenance keeps your vehicle running better for longer. Glenwood Auto are Trusted Saskatoon Auto Repair Experts, and we're ready to help you with all your maintenance needs. In our latest auto blog, we discuss the role of belts and hoses in your vehicle.

Vehicle Systems Overview - Belts and Hoses

What are the belt and hoses?

A vehicle’s belts and hoses are essential elements of the cooling, air conditioning and charging systems of the engine.  When a belt or hose breaks down it can leave you stranded, so it is important to meet the set replacement intervals recommended in your owner’s manual.

What do belts and hoses do?

Timing Belt

The timing belt is a notched rubber belt that allows the crankshaft to turn the camshaft. A timing belt is sometimes called a Gilmer belt or a camshaft drive belt. The camshaft opens and closes the valves in synchronized movement with the engine’s pistons.

Serpentine Belt

Serpentine belts, also known as drive belts, provide power to the air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, cooling fan, air injection pump, and more.

Coolant Hoses

Coolant hoses include the upper and lower radiator hoses plus heater hoses. Some cars include a bypass hose. Hoses provide a flexible connection for coolant flow between the engine, radiator, engine and heating block.

TYPICAL WEAR AND TEAR ON BELTS AND HOSES

Key items that affect the replacement interval for belts and hoses:

·  Vehicle age;

·  Electrolytic corrosion;

·  Mileage;

·  Oil contamination;

·  Belt tension; and/or

·  Failed hose clamps.

SYMPTOMS

·  Squeaking noise from under the hood during start-up or operation;

·  Coolant leaks;

·  Dashboard light illumination;

·  A/C system failure;

·  Engine overheating; and/or

·  Smell of burnt rubber.

Glenwood Auto is a Trusted Saskatoon Auto Repair and Service Shop

If you suspect your belts and hoses need to be replaced, book an appointment today!