What is the purpose of an idler pulley?
Table of Contents
- 1 What is the purpose of an idler pulley?
- 2 What happens when idler pulley goes bad?
- 3 What does it sound like when an idler pulley goes bad?
- 4 Can you drive without an idler pulley?
- 5 How much does it cost to replace an idler pulley?
- 6 Can I drive with a bad idler pulley?
- 7 Is it safe to drive with a bad idler pulley?
- 8 How much does it cost to replace the idler pulley?
What is the purpose of an idler pulley?
The idler pulley is a common part that’s found on the majority of the vehicles on the road. Its primary function is to provide tension and guide the engine drive belt. These belts wrap around the various parts of the engine such as the power steering pump, alternator, water pump etc…
What happens when idler pulley goes bad?
A broken or seized pulley can quickly lead to a torn belt, or in less serious cases, the belt falling off of the engine. An engine without a belt can quickly run into issues such as overheating and stalling, as it’s the drive belt that allows the engine accessories to function.
What are the signs of a bad idler pulley?
Signs and Symptoms of a Bad Idler Pulley
- Chattering, Squealing, or Chirping Sound.
- Corroded Surface.
- Excessively Loose Idler Pulley.
- A Bad Idler Pulley May Spin Excessively.
- Slow to No Spin or Binding.
What does it sound like when an idler pulley goes bad?
Squealing. When the engine is idling, a bad pulley may make a squealing sound. This is due to the bearings in the pulley going bad. The bearings may also make various other sounds such as clattering or even a rumbling sound, making the vehicle sound as if there was much more wrong than a bad pulley.
Can you drive without an idler pulley?
So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises. The car can still run for months or break after a few days.
Can a bad idler pulley cause alternator problems?
Alternators are DRIVEN by the serpentine belt. All that happens when the belt disappears or pulleys seize is the alternator stops turning; there is NO possibility of damage to the alternator.
How much does it cost to replace an idler pulley?
The cost to replace the idler pulley of your driver belt will usually be somewhere between $80 and $200. The cost for the new part should only be anywhere from $40 to $90, while the cost of the labor will be anywhere from $40 to $110. These prices do not include added taxes and fees charged by the auto shop.
Can I drive with a bad idler pulley?
How much does it cost to replace idler pulley?
Is it safe to drive with a bad idler pulley?
A damaged pulley can cause the drive or serpentine belt to dislodge. So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises.