On-Vehicle Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Toyota RAV4. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

CHECK FAN AND GENERATOR V BELT
1. Visually check the drive belt for excessive wear, frayed cords, etc.
  If any defect has been found, replace the drive belt.
  
  HINT:
  
  Cracks on the rib side of a drive belt are considered acceptable.
  
  If the drive belt has chunks missing from the ribs, it should be replaced.
  
  Fig 1: Checking Drive Belt For Excessive Wear
  Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
2. After installing the drive belt, check that it fits properly in the ribbed grooves.
  Check with your hand to confirm that the belt has not slipped out of the grooves on the bottom of the crank pulley.
  
  HINT:
  - A "new belt" is a belt which has been used for less than 5 minutes on a running engine.
  - A "used belt" is a belt which has been used on a running engine for 5 minutes or more.
  - After installing a new belt, run the engine for approximately 5 minutes and then recheck the tension.
    
    Fig 2: Checking Ribbed Grooves
    Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002