How long does an idler pulley last?
A car's drive belt powers almost every major engine component. Most new cars on the market have poly V-belts rather than various V-belts. For this belt to remain functional, it must be properly tensioned and guided. The idler pulley installed on your vehicle helps guide the belt where it needs to be while providing the tension needed to circulate it properly. This belt is used every time the engine is started and is a vital part of keeping the car running.
The idler pulley is designed to last the life of the vehicle. Usually this pulley wears out over time due to the amount of use it has. These pulleys can be made of metal or plastic and have a pressed bearing in the middle that securely fixes it to the belt shaft. The sealed bearing design helps reduce the need for regular lubrication and can provide years of wear-free service. A bad idler pulley can cause the engine to stop completely, which is why it is so important to check it from time to time.
When inspecting an idler pulley, you will need to look for signs of damage both on the pulley and on the bearing that sits in the middle of it. In some cases, the coating on the idler bearing will come off and release all the grease. This usually causes the bearing to lock up and prevent the pulley from turning freely.
Here are a few things you may notice when it's time to replace the idler pulley:
- Squealing and screeching coming from the engine
- engine warning lights on
- Power steering won't work
- Engine overheats regularly
Having your idler pulley replaced professionally on your vehicle is the best way to make sure the job is done right. Trying to do this type of work yourself usually results in a lot of additional repair problems.
