How to replace the serpentine belt — Honda Accord 2020

Tools you'll need

• 14 mm wrench or ratchet
• Serpentine belt tool (optional)
• Flashlight
• Gloves
• Rags

Parts you'll need

• New serpentine belt (match the old belt length and part number)

Steps

1. Park, turn the engine off, and let it coolPark on flat ground, turn the engine off, and wait until it is cool to the touch. Open the hood.
2. Find the belt routing diagramLook for the belt routing diagram on a sticker under the hood. Take a clear photo of the belt on the pulleys before you remove it so you can route the new one the same way.
   Tip: If there is no sticker, sketch the routing on paper.
3. Release the tensionerPut a 14 mm wrench or a serpentine belt tool on the tensioner pulley bolt and turn it to release the tension on the belt. Hold it there while you slip the belt off one pulley.
   Tip: The tensioner is spring-loaded and strong; keep your hands clear of the pulleys.
4. Slip the old belt offWith the tension released, work the old belt off the remaining pulleys and pull it out of the engine bay. Compare it with the new belt to make sure the length and rib count match.
5. Check the pulleys and tensionerSpin each pulley by hand and feel for roughness, wobble, or noise. If a pulley feels gritty or loose, it should be replaced too.
6. Route the new beltFollow your photo or the diagram and loop the new belt around the pulleys, leaving the tensioner pulley for last. Make sure the ribs sit in the pulley grooves and the belt is not twisted.
7. Release the tensioner and check the beltTurn the tensioner again, slip the belt onto the last pulley, and let the tensioner pull it tight. Start the engine and watch the belt run for a minute to make sure it tracks straight and does not squeal.

Safety first

Keep your hands away from the belt and pulleys while the engine is running. If you are not confident, have a qualified technician do this job.