Visual Diagnosis

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 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 ON BELT

2 - NOT NORMAL CRACKS ON BELT

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