One big belt

Serpentine belt ... a fairly new term for an auto part. Ever heard of it? The term, uncommon until the early '90's, refers to one long belt that drives engine-powered accessories.

Winding around in snakelike fashion from pulley to pulley on the front of the engine, it does the work of several belts found on older cars. A serpentine belt saves space, power and weight. But when it fails you're in trouble. All of those accessories, alternator, power steering, air conditioning, the radiator fan ... come to a halt.

The Car Care Council reminds motorists to have this important component examined frequently and replaced when necessary. If the serpentine belt is worn or frayed the alternator may still be powering your electrical system, the water pump still may be circulating coolant through the engine and the power steering still may be working because tension on the belt adjusts automatically.... until the adjuster no longer can compensate for wear. That's when failure can cause all of these systems to shut down.

Fortunately this belt is very visible at the front of the engine and, on most engines, replacement is a relatively simple procedure. Ignore it, says the Council, and the serpent could make trouble for you! Find out more at www.carcarecouncil.org.