Belts
Serpentine Belt
I was told I need a new serpentine belt, but I don’t see any cracks in it. Does it really need to be replaced? We appreciate your concern. Old-style neoprene belts would crack with age, making it pretty obvious when they needed to be replaced. Nowadays, serpentine belts are made from a different material that…
Read MoreBattery Replacement–When Should I Do It?
That’s a good question! All batteries wear out and need to be replaced – but some are replaced before their time. Look, if your battery is dying and you need a jump-start, it could very well be that you have a bad battery. But drivers should have Douglas Automotive Repair test the battery first to…
Read MoreWhat’s That Sound?
If you’re used to the sound of your vehicle’s running engine, you notice immediately when a previously unheard sound pops up. A high-pitched whine or lower-pitched grumbling/grinding sound can indicate problems with important components driven by the engine’s serpentine belt system, including the water pump and alternator. They may also be attributed to an idler…
Read MoreSerpentine Belt
Your serpentine belt drives your alternator and air conditioning compressor. The power steering and power brake pumps are driven by the serpentine belt in many vehicles. In some vehicles, the water pump is driven by the serpentine belt (in others it’s driven by the timing belt). The radiator cooling fan on some vehicles are also…
Read MoreAsk The Tech: Water Pump
“My water pump went out and it cost much more to replace than ones I’ve had replaced in the past. My repair shop said it’s because of where it’s located.” Why is that? Some water pumps are driven by the serpentine belt and are bolted on out in the open with the alternator and air…
Read MoreAll About Serpentine Belts…
My service professional said I need a new serpentine belt but I don’t see any cracks in it. Does it really need to be replaced? We appreciate your concern. Old style neoprene belts would crack with age, making it pretty obvious to drivers when they needed to be replaced. Nowadays, serpentine belts are made from a…
Read MoreBelts and Hoses…
Among all the equipment in your vehicle, belts and hoses have the shortest life span. Due to constant exposure to heat, vibration, and harmful chemicals, these components invariably crack, leak, fray and peel. If not promptly replaced and maintained, this could spell disaster for the performance of your vehicle. Evaluating the condition of your belts…
Read MoreMy Battery Keeps Going Dead
“My battery keeps going dead. I had it tested and it is fine–what could be the problem?” Well, your trouble could be caused by several things. Lets start with a likely suspect: your alternator. The alternator is like a little electrical generator. It is spun by the serpentine belt on your engine and makes electricity. …
Read MoreGetting Your Vehicle Ready For Summer
Summer’s heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through periodic maintenance…Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too! Some of the following tips are…
Read MoreWhen Do I Need To Replace My Battery?
That’s a vital question for Plainfield motorists. All batteries wear out and need to be replaced – but some are replaced before their time. Look, if your battery is dying and you need a jump-start, it could very well be that you have a bad battery. But Plainfield auto owners should have their battery tested…
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