Inspection
Check an auxiliary belt before ordering a replacement
Read markings and record symptoms without adjusting a running engine.
Make the vehicle safe
Switch the engine off, remove the key and wait for the engine bay to cool. Keep loose clothing, jewellery and hands away from belts and fans. Never inspect tension by touching a moving belt or use dressing sprays to hide a noise.
Inspect visible surfaces
From an accessible position, look for fraying, cracking, missing material, oil contamination or a belt riding incorrectly in a pulley. Do not rotate the engine, loosen brackets or remove guards merely to inspect it. A squeal may come from alignment, a pulley or a bearing rather than the belt alone.
Identify the replacement
Photograph legible belt markings, pulley arrangement and the installed alternator or other accessories. A changed accessory setup can alter belt length and profile. Ask the seller to confirm the manufacturer’s belt reference for your actual assembly; do not guess from model badge or appearance.
Use the correct fitting procedure
Belt replacement needs the correct tension, alignment and fastening procedure for the engine and accessory setup. Without those instructions and tools, use a mechanic. Stop using the vehicle if a belt has failed or the charging/cooling warning indicates a problem; diagnose the cause before installing another belt.