If your car cabin feels like a sauna and all your AC does is squeal when you turn it on, it’s likely the result of a bad AC belt.
Unless you replace it, your cabin will continue to slow-roast you while you drive.
Worried it’s going to cost a lot?
Relax!
We’ll give you a complete breakdown of the AC belt replacement cost, help you identify the signs of a faulty belt, and tell you how long a new belt will last.
This Article Contains:
- How Much Does an AC Belt Replacement Cost?
- Is It Worth Replacing the AC Belt?
- 5 Concerning Signs You Need an AC Belt Replacement
- How Long Do AC Belts Last?
- How Do You Know If Your Car Has an AC or Serpentine Belt?
How Much Does an AC Belt Replacement Cost?
Before we dive into the replacement costs, you may want to consider the type of belt your vehicle has.
Let us explain.
Modern cars typically use a single belt, known as the serpentine belt (or drive belt), which powers multiple components, such as the air conditioning compressor, power steering pump, and alternator.
In contrast, older vehicles often feature a dedicated AC belt designed to operate the air conditioning compressor.
That said, here are the estimates for an AC belt or serpentine belt replacement:
A. Range
Depending on your vehicle’s make and model, replacing your AC belt can cost around $75 to $280. This includes:
- Parts: $25 to $110
- Labor: $50 to $170 per hour
However, if it’s a bad serpentine belt (drive belt) causing your AC problems, replacing it might cost you between $90 to $250, including:
- Parts: $15 to $80
- Labor: $75 and $170
B. Factors Affecting Cost
Besides the type of new belt your car requires, other factors influencing the cost include:
- Belt material: Most cars have a standard rubber belt. However, rubber belts made of chloroprene have better durability and are more expensive.
- Labor cost: Urban areas with elevated living costs tend to have higher auto repair rates than less densely populated regions.
- Engine configuration: Cars with accessible engines incur a lower labor cost. However, replacing the belt in a car with a complex engine layout (e.g. transverse engine layout) may take longer and cost more.
- Additional repairs: Issues with other parts, like the belt tensioner and pulley, commonly occur along with a broken belt. Any other car repair will increase the final bill.
Is It Worth Replacing the AC Belt?
Yes, replacing your AC belt is necessary for a well-functioning AC system. Without a working AC, your cabin temperature will be hot and uncomfortable, leading to driving fatigue.
Additionally, the air conditioner system helps ensure your visibility through its dehumidifying function — without it, your windshield could fog up, putting you in danger.
In some cars, the AC belt also powers the water pump, which circulates the coolant through the engine. If the belt fails, your engine will overheat, leading to expensive repairs.
5 Concerning Signs You Need an AC Belt Replacement
Here are some common symptoms of a bad AC belt:
- Non-functioning air conditioning system
- The windshield defroster stops working
- Squealing noises resulting from a misaligned or slipping belt rubbing against a tensioner pulley
- Visible cracks on the old belt
- Engine overheating due to a broken belt that can’t power the water pump
How Long Do AC Belts Last?
AC belts can last between 30,000 and 40,000 miles. However, it depends on how much you use your car, air conditioner, and defroster.
In addition, contaminants like engine oil can also lead to a slipping belt, which reduces its lifespan.
How Do You Know If Your Car Has an AC or Serpentine Belt?
Older car models (pre-1979) typically use multiple drive belts (including the AC belt) to power various engine components like the alternator, air conditioning compressor, etc. Today, you may find a dedicated AC belt only on some specialty vehicles and high-performance cars.
The majority of modern vehicles use one belt (the serpentine belt) to drive these components.
If you’re unsure about the type of belt in your car, visit a mechanic.
Cool Down Your Cabin with AutoNation Mobile Service
A bad AC belt can make your ride sweaty and uncomfortable. To ensure ideal interior temperatures and visibility, you’ll need to replace the old belt.
Want to avoid the oven-like situation inside your cabin?
AutoNation Mobile Service’s mobile mechanics can replace your AC belt from your driveway. We also provide a 12-month|12,000-mile warranty on every car repair.
Contact us for a belt replacement or any other auto repair requirements.