Original GM Belts

GM builds factory belts galore into its cars, trucks, and SUVs. There are generally three types of belts. Serpentine belts are one of the most common if you drive a GM model newer than model year 1990. Working with a crank pulley, idler pulleys, and a tensioner, they help run systems ranging from your alternator to your power steering. Drive belts, on the other hand, you can usually find in older vehicles. Also called V-belts, they have tapered rubber teeth and run off a crank pulley, passing through several systems. Usually, you'll have drive belts for your alternator, water pump, and radiator fan, among other auto parts. The more add-on systems you have, the more belts your vehicle needs to run everything. Timing belts connect a crankshaft to a camshaft. They keep both moving in sync while keeping other moving parts from hitting one another. Some cars now have timing chains instead of belts. These are built to last the life of your engine. Belt failure can mean a breakdown. When to change your serpentine belt depends on whether it's cracked, or its groove depths have become too shallow. You should check it around 60,000 miles and replace it by 90,000 miles. A belt-wear gauge can help. Replacing drive belts depends on which are affected. If a drive belt's too tight, for instance, it can strain your alternator and damage the bearings on your water pump; loosen the belt. If you've got loose drive belts, however, it might be time to change them. This is especially true if they squeal, you're having alternator trouble, or your vehicle's overheating. Of course, replace a drive belt if it looks cracked or if tightening doesn't resolve other issues. Replace timing belts when they're damaged or every 60,000 to 90,000 miles. Lucky for you, we make it easy to buy the OEM belts your GM vehicle needs. Order with us and save money!