Drive Belt

[Rallier]

The alternator etc drive belt on my 2001 petrol snapped today. It's done just over 80k miles. Is this a common problem or was I just unlucky? Not sure if there's any other problem as it's still at the garage.

[firemac]

The alternator etc drive belt on my 2001 petrol snapped today. It's done just over 80k miles. Is this a common problem or was I just unlucky? Not sure if there's any other problem as it's still at the garage.

The belt on our 02 VVTi failed about a year ago after nearly 9 years & nearly 70K miles. Although I'm not aware that they are a service item, I reckon they're bound to go sooner or later.

I bought a 54-reg VVti last May with only 27K miles on it but, given the other car's experience, I'm inclined to get its belt renewed at the next service to try to avoid a similar failure.

[anchorman]

These things should get checked during service periods. Once they start showing instances of splits and checking they should be changed long before there is a risk of them breaking. Thats the idea of a servive - to have a look around for problems.

[firemac]

These things should get checked during service periods. Once they start showing instances of splits and checking they should be changed long before there is a risk of them breaking. Thats the idea of a servive - to have a look around for problems.

I agree, Don. Interestingly, I usually have a nose around the belt every week when doing the routine oil,water, brake fluid & tyre pressures checks. I'm no expert by any means but I've done enough repair & maint over the years to know when a belt is getting iffy. In the case of the belt that failed on ours, there was no obvious fault. However, this serpentine belt is much more sophisticated than the traditional "fan-belts" and I would reckon that it would be better if there was a specific time limit on its life, like a cambelt especially when you consider that it's driving the alternator, water pump & power steering pump. When it lets go you're stuffed; no chance of wrapping the wife's tights around the pulleys to get you home!

I still plan to change the belt on our 3-dr at the next service when it will be approaching its 8th birthday and nearly 50 K miles. Much more cost effective than a breakdown.

[Rallier]

Back off holiday and car sorted with a replacement belt and no apparent after effects!

So, I would agree with previous posters. It may not be a recommended replacement but certainly keep your eye on it!