Auto Parts – What is a Serpentine Belt?

1998 Ford Explorer Serpentine Belt

What is a Serpentine Belt?

Serpentine Belt in a car is a flat rubber belt that loops around like a serpent around pulleys in the engine compartment. It functions to drive many devices such as the alternator, water pump, air pump, A/C compressor, power steering pump etc.

Some cars and models use more than one belt, but more often than not nowadays you will only see one single serpentine belt.

If you hear squealing while driving the serpentine belt may be the culprit. You can inspect the belt yourself to see if it is frayed, cracked or otherwise broken, if it is it may need to be replaced.

Related reading: How to Inspect a serpentine belt

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