Camry 08 V-Belt Question.
 

Hi Everyone,

Today when i was checking coolant level just found something weird on v-belt (download pictures from following link).
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/q4dygc0b07j3jle/k-50fK5Dpq

Changed v-belt 5 months ago till then drove 30k only, so my questions are:

1. is this something dangerous to drive? shall i immediately go and check with mechanic.
2. Something else is causing this damage on v-belt?
3. I was dodged by mechanic? he might have put old v-belt?

Awaiting for quick response.

Thanks are in anticipations.

Cheers!!

Sunny

Can't download pictures.

Checkout the following link:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/q4dygc0b07j3jle/k-50fK5Dpq

The damage is unusual as being one spot on the back of the belt. The back of the belt contacts idler rollers which do not power anything.

Has the engine ever made a squeal when started or pressing the gas pedal. Are there any other areas along the back side of the belt that have this kind of damage? If so suggest going to the mechanic sooner then later.

As to replacement, depends on how deep the damage is. If you look at the side of the belt you may see it is layered. You don't want the damage to go into the layer below the back surface.

Belts are low cost, doubt the mechanic would reuse an old belt given the expense of the job is in the labor to replace it.

If the belt does break it will disable the power steering, engine water pump, A/C and alternator. Thus if driving and you lose power steering, the alt dash indicator light comes on, stop the car in a safe place ASAP as the engine will overheat due to lack of working water pump.

Given no other problems such as squealing or other damage don't think you need to run to the mechanic but the next time your in for an oil change or other service point this damage out and have them look over the pulley and idler system in hopes of finding the cause.

Suppose it is possible the new belt had this damage although it is something no manufacturer would allow in a new part.

Thx much Joey, appreciate it.