Hi,

The mechanic in the private shop where I have my 99 V70 GLT keeps telling me the auxiliary belt of my car needs to be replaced due to the cracks its showing. I did some research on the net and it seems it is quite normal for auxiliary belts to have some cracks. I only have 30k miles on this belt and the Volvo manual says it only needs to be replaced every 50k miles.

What do you guys think? I would appreciate any input.

Thanks.

 

The later models are scheduled to be changed at 100,000 miles. Keep an eye on it and keep one, and a tool to change it in the car. If it shreds, it has been known to get under the timing cover and onto the crank timing gear and allow the timing belt to jump, possibly doing mechanical damage.
If it just breaks, no big deal.
Ed

 

you are running on fumes, and that belt is about to break and leave you stranded.

For auxiliary belts the rec is 60K miles or sooner if you see cracks, and boy you have TONS OF CRACKS.

Change it ASAP

 

Hello, +1 re jda2000, especially the "Change it ASAP" part. Re ed7's scenarios: Do you feel lucky? Remember, something like a rubber belt-even a new fangled serpentine belt-is subject to wide variations in production quality. A sarcastic indie near me once said, "..every 50K, whether it needs it or not.". They're cheap and easy enough to replace. Kira

 

Thanks for the advise guys! I've decided not to take any chances and have booked an appointment to get it replaced.

 

Do you know how easy they are to replace? 10 minute job! DIY for less time than it takes to have someone else do it.

 

Really? I did know that. Anyone have any instructions on how to do this? Thanks.