Can a serpentine belt cause your car not to start?

The short answer is yes, your car will start even if the serpentine belt is broken or missing. To get the car going, the battery sends power to your starter motor.

What happens if you put a serpentine belt on wrong?

In some instances it may be possible to install a serpentine belt the wrong way. If this happens, one or more pulleys will rotate in the WRONG direction, affecting the operation of the alternator, water pump, A/C compressor or power steering pump. This can cause major problems.

What damage can a broken serpentine belt cause?

This can lead to a sudden lost of power assist for the steering system, leading to the steering wheel all-of-a-sudden becoming very hard to turn. A broken serpentine belt may stop the water pump from circulating coolant through the cooling system, causing the engine can overheat.

Can a broken serpentine belt cause engine damage?

If the engine runs without a serpentine belt, it might overheat as the water pump will no longer work. A broken belt can also damage other parts. We have seen broken radiator shrouds and ripped coolant hoses that were damaged by a ripped belt.

Can a bad pulley cause car not to start?

Hi – a failing idler pulley can certainly keep your alternator from charging properly, resulting in a dead battery, which would prevent the engine from starting of course. A slipping serpentine belt may or may not have turned on the “Battery” warning on your instrument panel.

How do you tell if a pulley is seized?

Another common symptom of a possible issue with the idler pulley is squealing from the engine belts. If the surface of the idler pulley wears, or the pulley seizes or binds it may cause the engine belt to squeal as a result of it rubbing against the surface of the pulley.

Can you drive a car with a broken serpentine belt?

It is best to not drive a car with a broken belt, even for a short distance. Get the car towed or get a mechanic to come to the car to replace the belt.