Visual Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Dodge Magnum, 2006 Dodge Charger, and 2006 Chrysler 300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Belt Wear Patterns

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

1 - NORMAL CRACKS BELT OK

2 - NOT NORMAL CRACKS REPLACE BELT

When diagnosing serpentine accessory drive belts, small cracks (1) that run across the ribbed surface of the belt from rib to rib, are considered normal. These are not a reason to replace the belt. However, cracks (2) running along a rib (not across) are not normal. Any belt with cracks running along a rib must be replaced. Also replace the belt if it has excessive wear, frayed cords, severe glazing or chunking.

Any belt with bumps, surface coming apart, or any other uneven indications along the flat surface of the belt must be remove and inspected and replaced if necessary.

Refer to ACCESSORY DRIVE BELT DIAGNOSIS CHART for further belt diagnosis.