A serpentine belt is one of those critical parts of your car that often goes unnoticed. People mostly notice the serpentine belt when it has a defect. It is when replacing these belts that most of us realize that they are probably one of the most vital parts of an automotive engine.
A serpentine belt is a continuous automotive belt that drives several peripheral devices in your car’s engine. It links the air conditioning compressor, alternator, power steering, and water pump, among other parts of the engine system.
In case you need to replace your serpentine belt or just want to learn more about these essential automotive devices, then you are in the right place. In this review, we will shed light on some of the best serpentine belts in the market, while also providing a buyer’s guide section to help you make the purchase that suits your car best.
Features to consider in Good Serpentine Belts
What is the best serpentine belt for my car? Unfortunately, there is no definite answer to this question because there is no one-size-fits-all option when it comes to serpentine belts. Different brands have different products that may or may not be compatible with your car, which is why you should take your time to examine a belt’s compatibility with your vehicle.
When it comes to materials, we recommend settling for belts made from EPDM rubber because it has sturdy and elastic properties. A good belt is one that can withstand and overcome various wear and tear agents like grease, oil, and dust. Low noise emission is also an important factor to consider, especially if you like driving in comfort like most people.
Top 10 Best Serpentine Belts 2020
1. Bando USA 6PK2135 Belt
Editor’s Rating:
Material
The Bando USA 6PK2135 Belt boasts strong ground rubber ribs strategically compounded from synthetic rubber that is both high-strength and durable. This strength increases the belt’s lifespan by increasing resistance to wear, allowing you to use the belt without worrying about having to replace it.
Convenient features
The presence of strong and sturdy tensile cords helps the belt carry high horsepower without unnecessary stretching; this allows the belt to fit into different types of automobiles. You can expect the Bando USA 6PK2135 Belt to fit into both old and new models, which makes it one of the best products on the market. Its resistance to wear allows for long term use, even on heavy automobiles that pack high power.
Verdict
The quality of the Bando USA 6PK2135 Belt is among the best in the industry. Bando is a brand with a good reputation and has won several awards from manufacturers like Honda, Toyota, Nissan, and VW for the production of high-quality products. You can expect this serpentine belt to serve you for years to come as it consists of high-quality synthetic rubber.
Pros
- Manufactured by a reputable, award-winning brand
- Can fit different types of car models from old to new
- Made from durable material that allows for long term use
- Ground rubber ribs reinforced with high-quality material for increased wear resistance
- Strong tensile cords that don’t stretch easily
- Amazon bestseller
Cons
- Although it fits a wide range of engine structures, it is not ideal for every type of vehicle
2. ACDelco 6K930 Professional V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt
Editor’s Rating:
Material
One of the most exceptional features of the ACDelco 6K930 Professional V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt is the material used to make it. It consists of EPDM rubber that is both crack- and temperature-resistant, which guarantees dependable and sustainable levels of performance under duress. The EPDM rubber also allows for quiet performance and increased durability.
Convenient features
This belt has a state-of-the-art rib profile that transmits loads efficiently and evenly through the accessory belt drive systems (ABDS), allowing other components of the car to function at their peak operational levels. The ACDelco 6K930 Professional V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt is also one of the most flexible belts on the market, allowing it to withstand backside and topside bends with ease, thus resulting in increased belt life.
Another impressive feature is its ability to accept misalignment within the ABDS, which is far more than what other serpentine belts in the market can allow.
Verdict
It is no secret that the ACDelco 6K930 Professional V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt is among the best in the industry. This belt can withstand high amounts of load without breaking and lasts up to 60 percent longer than other belts, thus making it ideal for car owners in search of a belt that is tough and durable.
Pros
- Lasts up to 60 percent longer compared to standard serpentine belts
- Highly flexible to increase load resistance
- Crack and temperature resistant, thus allowing the belt to overcome agents of wear
- Made of technologically advanced EPDM rubber
Cons
- Not compatible with most old model vehicles
3. Gates K081264HD Serpentine Belt/ Fan Belt
Editor’s Rating:
Material
Gates Corporation manufactures its serpentine using high-quality, grade-A rubber that is both flexible and durable. The extra level of flexibility allows the Gates K081264HD Serpentine Belt to handle heavy loads in the engine system without wearing or tearing, which is good news for car owners looking to purchase a long-lasting serpentine belt. It integrates modern technology in the makeup of its tension-resistant belt, a feature that allows the Gates K081264HD Serpentine Belt to be usable on heavy-duty trucks as well as ordinary cars.
Convenient features
The Gates K081264HD Serpentine Belt is among the Top 10 best rated serpentine belts on Amazon primarily because of its ultra-convenient elasticity. With this belt, you can expect your car to function at its best because the company designs it for silent and vibration-free operations. The low noise emission and reduced vibrations help increase cooling properties while also reducing overall tension, which in turn helps the belt to last a long time.
Verdict
Nobody wants to replace a serpentine belt more often than necessary, which is why we love the Gates K081264HD Serpentine Belt. The company makes this belt to last. It is highly elastic, a feature that allows the serpentine to interconnect the different components of a car’s engine system with relative ease. Although it is relatively more expensive than other serpentine belts, it has top of the line properties that guarantee service over the long term.
Pros
- Made from A-grade rubber
- Flexible and elastic enough to handle different weight loads and horsepower
- Manufactured in the United States using the highest-quality products
- Ideal for heavy-duty trucks and ordinary vehicles as well
- Highly resistant to impacts and rubber cracks
- Fairly expensive compared to other serpentine belts
4. ACDelco 12576447 GM Original Equipment V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt
Editor’s Rating:
Material
The ACDelco 12576447 GM Original Equipment V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt is one that will serve your engine for long mileage without disappointments. It consists of grade A, chrome-coated rubber that is multi-ribbed to provide greater functionality for your car’s pulley system. The v-ribs allow the ACDelco 12576447 GM Original Equipment V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt to withstand tension and perform at a high-level, which is ideal for vehicles with high horsepower.
Convenient features
You can expect the ACDelco 12576447 GM Original Equipment V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt to help minimize the overall engine load because of its excellent elasticity. The belt distributes the load evenly across the major engine components, ensuring each part functions optimally. The v-ribbed rubber helps the ACDelco 12576447 to withstand tension without unnecessary stretching, thus allowing for increased durability.
Verdict
You can never go wrong with the ACDelco 12576447 as the company designs it to avoid slippage in the engine system. Its high-quality rubber makeup also ensures that this serpentine belt remains elastic and durable enough to serve your engine for years, depending on your mileage. It doesn’t tear or wear quickly, making it a great purchase. It is a recommended replacement accessory for your car’s original component, as it is compatible with several other parts of your engine. We recommend this belt if you want a long-lasting, highly compatible belt to hold your engine system smoothly.
Pros
- Helps in minimizing and evenly distributing engine load
- Can withstand enormous tension without unnecessary stretching
- V-ribbed for less slippage and increased durability
Cons
- Not compatible with most old models
5. Continental 4060740 6-rib, 74.0 Multi-V/Serpentine Belt
Editor’s Rating:
Material
The Continental 4060740 6-rib, 74.0 Multi-V/Serpentine Belt is made from gatorback rubber, which increases its durability and resistance to wear and tear over repetitive use. This poly-v rubber allows for quiet functioning because its design reduces noise emission during use. It also comes with sturdy members which are high-tension to manage overall load with ease.
Convenient features
It runs cooler and is more flexible because of the Continental’s quiet channel technology. Flexibility and smooth operations help increase belt life since there will be little friction resulting from repetitive actions. The Continental 4060740 6-rib, 74.0 Multi-V/Serpentine Belt also comes with members that are high-tension, which helps increase resistance to wear. The rubber compounds and the staggered-cog mechanism eliminate all the noise that might arise from pulley misalignment.
Verdict
The Continental 4060740 6-rib, 74.0 Multi-V/Serpentine Belt is a top belt for high-performing vehicles. Its noise reduction features make it ideal for long-term usage because quiet operations help increase overall cooling in the pulley system. The high tension members ensure that the belt resists gradual tear and wear, thus allowing for a longer lifespan. We recommend this belt if you want a high-performing product that makes little to no noise.
Pros
- Utilizes quiet channel technology for silent operations
- Made from high-quality, durable material
- The gatorback rubber increases flexibility and overall resistance to maximum engine load
Cons
- Might lead to issues with some engine types if it doesn’t fit well
6. Motorcraft JK6982D Serpentine Belt
Editor’s Rating:
Material
The material used in manufacturing a serpentine belt is crucial in determining its service life. The Motorcraft JK6982D Serpentine Belt consists of polyester cords, which help minimize slippage as well as resist stretching. The use of elastic polyester cords helps in conserving the energy required in bending pulleys, thus ensuring efficient engine operation.
Convenient features
The Motorcraft JK6982D Serpentine Belt consists of good material that not only helps resist deterioration but also assists in maintaining the belt’s overall elasticity. This belt is both sturdy and elastic, thus allowing it to manage engines with high horsepower without breaking down. It also resists agents like dirt, grease, high temperatures, and oil, making it a genuinely dependable serpentine belt that can interlink the various parts of your car’s engine system.
Verdict
Most serpentine belts succumb to deterioration agents like grease, dirt, and high temperatures. However, the Motorcraft JK6982D Serpentine Belt is different; this belt consists of elastic polyester cords, which allow it to remain strong and sturdy after repeated usage. You no longer have to worry about regular belt replacement when using this high quality device.
Pros
- Made from high quality polyester cords
- Designed to resist agents of deterioration
- Can be used for both heavy and light usage
- Durable
- Improves the functionality of the linked parts
- Elastic and crack-resistant
- Comes with a limited lifetime Motorcraft warranty
Cons
- Not ideal for heavy trucks and vehicles
7. ACDelco K040378HD Specialty Heavy Duty V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt
Editor’s Rating:
Material
The ACDelco K040378HD Specialty Heavy Duty V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt is a unique release from ACDelco and has top-quality, double-layered EPDM rubber. The rubber is double-layered to increase toughness such that the belt can manage heavy engine loads. Despite its sturdy makeup, this serpentine belt is highly flexible to allow it to bend and fit perfectly into your vehicle’s pulley system.
Convenient features
Its double-layered profile increases resistance to both weight and temperature. You can expect this serpentine belt to remain firm and flexible after miles of repeated usage without breaking or wearing out. Another feature that you can rely on is its v-ribbed exterior, which allows for better grip and reduced slipping when in use. The v ribs enable your vehicle’s engine system to gel well with the replacement belt.
Verdict
When it comes to heavy-duty serpentine belts, it is hard to overlook the ACDelco K040378HD Specialty Heavy Duty V-Ribbed Serpentine Belt. This belt has been tried and tested with powerful engines and never disappoints primarily because of its unique double-layered, v-ribbed profile. While it also works well with less powerful engines, it may not make a perfect fit when used with superior motor that forks out high power.
Pros
- Made from a high-quality dual-layered rubber material
- Flexible despite having a tough exterior
- Resistant to wear and high-temperature conditions
- Built to last because of the use of EPDM rubber
- Ideal for heavy-duty vehicles
- Made using high-quality materials
Cons
- Not ideal for small cars as it won’t function smoothly
8. Moca 6PK2225 Quality Serpentine Belt
Editor’s Rating:
Material
The Moca 6PK2225 Quality Serpentine Belt has high-quality EPDM rubber that is both high-performance and elastic to prevent cracking. The rubber material is also tough enough to withstand high engine loads and superior horsepower, which makes this serpentine belt stand out from others in the market.
Convenient features
The sturdy and highly elastic EPDM rubber helps to distribute engine load across the entire system, which in turn reduces the overall tension on the pulley system. It is rated among the best replacement models as it has six ribs that help prevent sliding, a common problem that usually arises with most replacement belts. The belt boasts tech-enhanced features in the design of the ribs that allow other components in the ABDS to perform at the highest possible level.
Verdict
The Moca 6PK2225 Quality Serpentine Belt is ideal for owners of vehicles with high horsepowers. Its six ribs are suitable for load distribution, while the elastic rubber ensures that the belt does not succumb to load tension. This attention to load helps increase the durability and effectiveness of the belt, allowing you to save cash in the long-run. We also like that Moca provides a 60,000 mileage or two-year warranty on this belt.
Pros
- Comes with a two-year manufacturers (Moca) warranty
- Manufactured from high-quality EPDM rubber
- Has six ribs that help reduce sliding
- Flexible enough to link all components of the ABDS and allow for smooth functionality
- The company provides outstanding after-sales support that helps sort out potential issues
Cons
- Not compatible with many models
9. Gates K060882 Multi-V-Groove Belt
Editor’s Rating:
Material
The Gates K060882 Multi-V-Groove Belt has grade A, high-quality rubber that helps it maintain its sturdy properties while remaining flexible enough for effective functioning in the pulley system. The rubber is reinforced by multi-V grooves that are fiber-reinforced to create a large surface area for effective power transmission within limited spaces. This design helps to conserve energy in your automobile’s pulley system, thus giving it a mechanical advantage.
Convenient features
The renowned Gates K060882 Multi-V-Groove Belt consists of a sturdy rubber material that increases its overall durability. This serpentine belt is highly elastic, a feature that allows it to distribute total engine load effectively within the pulley system. You can count on this high-performing belt to serve you for years as it also comes with a one-year or 12,000-mile warranty. It is among the few serpentine belts known to increase overall engine performance and get your pulley system functioning optimally.
Verdict
If you want convenience and durability in one package, then you should consider the Gates K060882 Multi-V-Groove Belt. The Gates Corp. makes this belt from high-quality rubber material reinforced with fiber for extra thickness. Impressively, it remains highly flexible and elastic despite its thickness-enhancing properties to help to ensure that the belt correctly handles and distributes the engine load fluently across the system for top performance.
Pros
- Makes minimal noise during use
- Made from good quality material that guarantees durability
- Elastic despite its thickness-enhancing properties
- Resistant to cracking and high temperatures
- Comes with a warranty that safeguards your investment
Cons
- Not compatible with some models
10. Bando 7PK 1781 Belts
Editor’s Rating:
Material
The Bando 7PK 1781 Belt has high-quality rubber ribs reinforced by synthetic rubber that is both compact and high strength to create a durable and wear-resistant outer layer that can withstand wear and tear agents such as dust, oil, and grease. You can expect the Bando 7PK 1781 Belt to last longer than other belts in a similar price range. This superior belt has seven grounded ribs that not only increase efficiency in load distribution but also improve the overall functioning of your car’s engine components.
Convenient features
Similar to other Bando releases, the Bando 7PK 1781 Belt is designed to handle enormous horsepower loads, thus giving your car the required freedom to take advantage of its power capabilities. The seven grounded ribs improve the cohesion in the engine pulley system while reducing slipping at the same time. Another great feature of the Bando 7PK 1781 Belt is its flexibility and ability to bend elastically without breaking or cracking even at high temperatures. The flexibility allows the belt to function at a high level and achieve the desired outcomes.
Verdict
We recommend the Bando 7PK 1781 Belt if you are a sucker for high horsepower. This serpentine belt is among the best when it comes to the even distribution of engine load, a feature that allows the engine pulley system to function effectively. This belt will also serve you for thousands of miles without the need to replace it because it consists of high-quality rubber that is elastic and durable as well.
Pros
- Made from wear- and temperature-resistant rubber reinforced by synthetic fiber
- Has seven ribs for increased grip and functionality in the pulley system
- Made from an award-winning, highly trusted company
- Boasts of tensile cords that are strong and sturdy enough to manage enormous horsepower loads
- Doesn’t stretch easily
- Highly elastic despite its tough rubber exterior
Cons
- Not Ideal for most old models
Guide to Buying the Best Serpentine Belts
Now that we have discussed some of the leading products in the serpentine belt market, it is time to dive into the buyer’s guide section. In this part, we will shed light on some of the crucial things you need to keep in mind as you look to buy the best serpentine belt for your car.
Read on to find out the key things to consider in your serpentine belt replacement journey.
Materials
We cannot overstate the importance of selecting a serpentine belt made from the right stuff. You have to be extra careful to ensure that you choose a belt made from a high-quality rubber material. EPDM is one of the best materials in serpentine belt production and has become popular for manufacturers because of its robust and elastic properties. That is, despite being tough, EPDM is also flexible enough to allow your serpentine belt to bend without cracking or breaking due to high temperatures. You should also go for serpentines ribbed and reinforced with synthetic rubber as they provide a significant mechanical advantage because of decreased slippage.
Good quality material also helps to reduce slippage in your car’s pulley system, a factor that is important for the optimum functionality of your car’s engine components. Purchasing a replacement belt made from the right materials will ensure that your belt lasts long enough and works well with other parts of your automobile’s pulley system.
Compatibility with Your Vehicle
A serpentine belt is one of those car parts that you can’t replace without considering compatibility. You can spend your hard-earned cash on purchasing a neat-looking belt only to find it incompatible with the particular model of your vehicle. As such, you have to be extra cautious when selecting a serpentine belt. Did you know that incompatibility can negatively impact the efficiency of your belt?
Your car won’t perform at its required level if you get a belt that doesn’t make a perfect fit for the other components. Remember, the serpentine belt is merely a pulley that connects different parts of your car’s engine system to ensure they function together and in the right way. As a result, you have to practice caution to ensure that you specify the model of your car before purchasing any serpentine belt. Rushing will only leave you disappointed, especially when the belt starts affecting the functionality of other parts in your pulley system. With the wrong belt, you could end up spending more in terms of repair.
Update/Review other Components
Since the serpentine belt is the center of the pulley system, you might find yourself in a situation where you need to update other components for your engine to function optimally. It could be another faulty component that led to the wear and malfunction of your serpentine belt, which means replacing the belt without diagnosing the problem won’t help much. A new belt could wear out very quickly if other components are faulty.
It is advisable to take time and investigate the entire pulley system before replacing a serpentine belt. Examine the functionality of other components to ensure the necessary replacement of faulty parts before capping the repair with a new serpentine belt. Replacing the belt but maintaining defective components is a recipe for disappointment.
Be prepared to spend a little more on updating or changing other components in your engine system for your serpentine belt to function accordingly. Once you get the right replacement, you will experience a positive shift in your entire pulley system as the belt will hold everything together, ensuring the other components function optimally.
Noise Reduction Properties
Unfortunately, not all serpentine belts function with the required level of precision and performance. Some will help get the job done but not in the ideal ways. Noise emission is usually an indication of poor performance or unwanted friction in the pulley system. Consider going for belts that integrate noise reduction technology in their makeup as this will ensure that you get a product that not only reduces friction and vibrations in the pulley system but also increases overall performance. Nobody likes driving to the sound of excessive engine noises.
A point to note, though, if a serpentine belt begins making unwanted noises, then that could indicate a possible misfit, wear, or wrong installation. Be aware of how your pulley system responds to a replacement belt to avoid having to make wholesale changes to other components.
Buy From Trusted Brands
A serpentine belt is one component of your car that you don’t want to mess with or take for granted. This highly important part holds other parts in place, meaning if something goes wrong with it, then other components won’t function as expected as well. You cannot afford to buy a serpentine belt just because it is appealing or looks pleasant to the eye.
The golden rule is, take time to investigate not only the properties of the belt but also the reputation of the manufacturers. Luckily, we have provided you with an extensive list of 10 of the best serpentine belts in the market. These belts are from trustworthy and renowned brands that have good reputations for producing top-quality automobile accessories.
Always check on product ID numbers to ensure that they match before installing a belt to your pulley system. A company that also provides customer support is ideal when buying serpentine belts. Never shy from asking questions before deciding on a particular brand as your car’s functionality and performance depend on the quality of the replacement belt you purchase.
Price
While pricing is also a factor to consider when replacing your serpentine belt, it should not be your only consideration. It is not advisable to choose a belt because of its low price without considering functionality and compatibility with your car. Nevertheless, you should also stick to your intended budget, meaning you can scout around for the best serpentine belt within your price range.
Manufacturers usually design higher-priced serpentine belts from materials that are superior in quality compared to cheaper options. However, you can also find some good quality belts at low prices provided you take the time to compare prices and functionality.
Top Rated and Trusted Brands in the Serpentine Belt Market
Having discussed the main things to consider when buying a serpentine belt, why don’t we proceed to highlight some of the best brands dominating the industry when it comes to serpentine belts.
Bando
Bando is a leading brand when it comes to top-quality serpentine belts. The company has been around for over a century, which explains its high ratings. Bando has a good reputation as an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for leading brands like Nissan and Toyota, which proves that it is among the best brands when it comes to car accessories.
ACDelco
It should come as no surprise that ACDelco is among the best brands in the serpentine market. This company has several products in our Top 10 list, an indication of its commitment to the manufacture of good, durable belts. ACDelco’s belts are known to enhance the overall performance of your vehicle, which is ideal, considering no one wants to replace engine components more frequently than necessary.
Continental Elite
Continental Elite is a brand well-known for its use of technology to influence its products. This company utilizes a Quiet Channel Technology that is exclusive to its products. Serpentine belts using the Quiet Channel Technology perform their functions by emitting the least possible noise while at the same time increasing overall performance.
Gates
Gates is also another company to consider when selecting a serpentine belt. It tries to outperform the competition by coming up with low-priced products that don’t compromise on quality. Its belts consist of EPDM rubber, which makes them durable and elastic at the same time. You should try out this company if you are not a fan of the belts produced by the leading manufacturers like Bando and ACDelco.
Final Verdict
The journey to replace your car’s serpentine belt is not an easy one. But, with this best serpentine belt review at your disposal, you can avoid falling prey to the common mistakes that most first-time buyers tend to make.
Remember, replacing a serpentine belt shouldn’t stop with buying a new belt. You should take your time to examine other components in your engine system. On most occasions, a broken belt is usually an indication that another element is either dysfunctional or not working as required. Check on such factors before making any replacement.
Finally, as you look to buy the best serpentine belt for your car, always ensure that you select from reputable and well-known brands. And since we have discussed the leading products from the best brands, finding the perfect serpentine belt for your vehicle shouldn’t be a tough task.
Source: Tools - autoquarterly.com
