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Home » Automotive Blog » How Much Does Engine Belt Replacement Cost in the Uk

A Detailed Guide to Engine Belt Replacement Cost and Types

  • 5 min read
Engine Belt Replacement Cost
Engine belts are simple components of a car engine. However, these belts play a vital role in the overall performance of a car. Before knowing the actual cost of engine belt replacement, you need to know about different types of engine belts.

Even if you are a new car owner or have many cars, each car’s mechanism and engine specifications differ. Remember each vehicle has different numbers of car belts that depend on the following factors;
  • Car engine design
  • Engine age

In this detailed guide, we’ll explore all types of engine belts and the cost of replacing those belts. So, start reading to delve into further details and cost breakdown;

Different Types of Engine Belts

As mentioned above, each engine has different belts depending on the design and age. Here is the list of the most common types of engine belts, including their replacement cost breakdown;

Engine Timing/Cam Belt

An engine timing belt, also known as a cam belt, is located at the front of the engine and under the timing cover. It is attached to the crankshaft and camshaft with several pulleys. Most people also know the timing belt as a drive belt.

A timing belt performs two jobs: powering the engine camshaft and synchronising it with the crankshaft. It ensures the timely opening and closing of each engine valve. That’s why a drive belt is also known as a timing belt.

Timing Belt Replacement Cost

An engine timing belt can last up to 90,000 miles. However, replacing a timing belt after every 110,000 miles is recommended. An average timing or cam belt replacement costs around £300 and £900.

However, this cost can vary depending on the engine type, design, condition and labour cost.

Engine Serpentine Belt/ Drive Belt

Older car engines have many V belts for proper engine functioning and support. However, a serpentine belt is an alternative to several V belts in modern engines as this single belt goes up from several pulleys.

That’s why the serpentine belt is also known by several names, such as drive and accessory belts. It is tightened or intact and has several pulleys that transmit great power to the car engine.

Because of its complexity, serpentine belt replacement requires much time, professionalism, and a large budget.

Serpentine Belt Replacement Cost

An engine serpentine belt can last up to 60,000 to 110,000 miles. However, you can increase this span by regular maintenance and inspection of the serpentine belt. A drive or serpentine belt replacement costs around £80 – £250.

Engine Belt Replacement Cost By Lms

Engine Serpentine Belt/ Drive Belt

A belt is required to support or transmit the power appropriately to power the cooling system in a car engine. However, the serpentine belt powers the fan in a few engine designs. You cannot keep your car’s engine cool without a proper fan belt. That’s why timely replacement or maintenance of fan belts is more crucial than engine mount replacement.

Fan Belt Replacement Cost

An engine fan belt can last up to 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, the longevity of the fan belt depends on the engine type, condition, car model, and make. A fan belt replacement costs between £80 and £150.

Engine Alternator Belt

If a serpentine belt cannot power the alternator, an alternator belt is here to power the system. However, an alternator belt is small and powers the alternator only. The alternator belt’s power and design depend entirely on the engine type, car make and model.  In a few cars, alternator belts also power the steering system. You should check the alternator belt before repairing or replacing the power steering. 

Alternator Belt Replacement Cost

An alternator belt lasts up to 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, these miles can vary depending on the car's maintenance level, engine condition, and age. Regarding alternator belt replacement cost, it costs around £80 – £250, excluding labour costs.

Engine Auxiliary Belt

Auxillary belts support and power the power steering system, water pump, alternator and air-conditioning compressor and connect these components with crankshaft pulleys.

In most modern vehicles, the auxiliary belt, also known as a serpentine belt, is connected with several pulleys. Car drivers must check the auxiliary belt twice weekly to maintain the tension between the pulleys for better and smoother work on a car engine.

Auxiliary Belt Replacement Cost

An auxiliary belt lasts up to 50,000 to 100,000 miles. However, if adequately inspected, it can last more than these miles. On average, auxiliary belt replacement costs around £70 to £150, excluding labour costs.

How Do You Tell If Engine Belts Are Not Working Properly?

Remember, engine health and performance depend entirely on its belts. Each engine belt has its working mechanism and structure, so the reasons and signs for its failure can vary.

However, here are a few of the most common signs or indications to tell if there is a problem with any engine belt;
  • Engine noise
  • Belts cracking
  • Difficulty in handling the car while driving uphill
  • Difficulty in cooling down the engine heat
  • Unusual or squeaky noises from the car
If you find any of these signs in your car, contact a professional mechanic or automotive garage, such as London Motor Sports, for prompt diagnostics and timely engine belt replacements.

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