A belt or hose failure can cause an overheated engine, loss of power steering, and loss of the electrical charging system. If a hose leaks coolant or the belt turning the water pump snaps, the cooling system is inoperable. If the engine overheats, it can suffer serious internal damage that requires expensive repairs and can ruin a summer vacation. 

Many of the same elements that attack hoses also attack belts—heat, oil, ozone, and abrasion. Almost all cars and trucks built today have a single belt that drives the alternator, water pump, power-steering pump, and air-conditioning compressor. Older vehicles may have separate belts that drive the accessories.

Any belt should be changed when it shows signs of excessive wear. But many new composite belts don't show signs of wear until the failure occurs. Any time you're in the Fairview, OR, Portland, OR, Gresham, OR and surrounding areas - have your belts and hoses inspected at Blue Lake Auto & RV Repair. We can help prevent leaking hoses and broken belts on your vehicle.