Your car is equipped with several belts and hoses that help it run smoothly, such as the timing and serpentine belt, as well as the coolant hoses. When they break or stop working, you will need car repair, which could be very costly. That’s why it’s important to focus on preventative maintenance by checking them regularly.

When to Check Your Belts & Hoses

Timing Belt

Your timing belt, also called a timing chain, is a ridged rubber belt that helps turn the camshaft in your car, and it’s essential to your engine’s ability to run. If it breaks, your engine will stop, and you will have expensive car repairs to deal with. Most manufacturers recommend inspecting or replacing your timing belt every 50,000 miles. If you have purchased a used car, you should immediately have it checked to ensure it isn’t loose or has a slipped belt.

Serpentine Belt

Your serpentine belt is the hub of many parts in your car. It’s also called a drive belt, and it gives power to your cooling fan, AC compressor, and power steering pump. With all these things dependent on your serpentine belt, it’s important to check it every time you get an oil change or minor car repair. Most need to be replaced between 35,000 and 50,000 miles.

Radiator Hoses

Your radiator hose, also called a coolant hose, pumps coolant from your radiator to the rest of the engine, keeping it from overheating. Because it’s subjected to high temperatures and high pressure, a radiator hose can develop cracks, breaks, or bulges. If this happens, you could develop a coolant leak and find your car overheating. Have your mechanic check these two to three times a year.

Springdale Automotive has helped many of their customers with preventative automotive care, including checking belts and hoses that need to be replaced or repaired. If you need car repair, visit the best automotive care center in the Greater Cincinnati area. The team at Springdale Automotive will provide you with a vehicle diagnostic test to make sure everything is working properly. Call (513) 860-2760 today to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more.