FAQs
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.
How much does it cost to fix idler pulley? ›
The average cost for a Drive Belt Idler Pulley Replacement is between $160 and $183. Labor costs are estimated between $66 and $83 while parts are priced between $94 and $100. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
What happens if you don't replace idler pulley? ›
Hence, if your vehicle has a bad idler pulley, then it will affect the function of the AC compressor, water pump, alternator and power steering pump. Idler pulleys tend to fail over time and should be replaced at the earliest.
What is the difference between idler pulley and tensioner pulley? ›
However, in terms of function and purpose, an idler pulley is responsible for guiding a belt drive in an engine or mechanical system, while a tensioner pulley is responsible for tensioning the drive belt.
What problems can a idler pulley cause? ›
Common symptoms of a malfunctioning idler pulley include corrosion on the pulley's surface, chattering and squealing noises, and slow spinning. Recommended idler pulley brands include Replacement, Gates, and Dayco.
Should you replace idler pulley with serpentine belt? ›
We suggest technicians change a pulley whenever a timing belt or serpentine belt is changed and vice versa, but there are eight key warning signs to look out for when a pulley goes bad: Rock – Rock the pulley back and forth. There should be no movement or play from side to side.
What happens if you over tighten an idler pulley? ›
An over-tightened belt can burn out any bearing that the belt rotates on, including alternator, power steering pump, A/C compressor, idler pulleys, etc. An over-tightened timing belt can ruin any pulley bearing it is connected with.
What is the main advantage of idler pulley? ›
There are two advantages of using an idler pulley: Initial tension in the belt can be increased from time to time by adjusting the position of adjustable weight or by increasing the adjustable weight value. Due to increase in initial tension, power transmitting capacity of belt drive gets increased.
Why does my idler pulley make noise when accelerating? ›
The most common cause of a noisy idler pulley is worn-out bearings. The bearings in the pulley can degrade over time due to constant use, exposure to high temperatures, and lack of lubrication.
How many idler pulleys does a car have? ›
Most engines use one idler pulley and one tensioner pulley, whereas some vehicles will use more than one idler pulley. As time goes by idler pulleys will be prone to wear and tear and has to be replaced.
With that being said, here are a few of the most common symptoms you can use to determine the condition of your timing belt pulleys.
- Shaky, or Otherwise Incumbered Belt Motion. ...
- Visible Wear On Your Pulleys. ...
- Belt “Squealing” or “Whining” Noises. ...
- Knocking or Slapping Noises. ...
- Damaged Bearings or Pulleys.
How often do you need to replace a tensioner pulley? ›
There is no recommended timeframe in which to replace your tensioner, especially as the belt itself usually needs replacing before the tensioner does. However, you should inspect your tensioner each time you service your car to monitor its condition and replace it if necessary.
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 is the life expectancy of a pulley? ›
PULLEYS. With regular lubrication and replacement of lagging, pulleys should last ten years or more.