How Critical Are Belts On Your Vehicle?

Your drive belts are simple but integral components to the function of your car, truck, or SUV. At Nick's Automotive in Reno, belts are one of the first things we assess when looking over a vehicle, as they alone are in charge of operating your AC, water pump, alternator, and power steering.

The perfect time to have your belts inspected or replaced is usually around fall. Belts are made of rubber, which dries, expands, and dry rots as it is exposed to summer heat and conditions for several months on end. When temperatures drop and the weather changes, belts often begin squeaking, slipping, falling off, and breaking.

A slipping belt is at best a nuisance, and at worst will leave your car stranded. When a belt breaks, the alternator stops charging, coolant stops circulating, and the steering wheel becomes nearly impossible to turn. After losing a belt, your car only has a couple of minutes before it begins overheating, and only slightly longer if the battery stops charging. The risk of extensive damage is posed whenever a belt is lost.

Fortunately, belt servicing is straightforward and inexpensive, as long as it’s caught before the belt breaks. By having one of our expert technicians inspect your belts, you can rest easy knowing your belts are still ready to go, or new ones have been installed.

Whether your belts are making noise, or you just want to be sure you’re ready for the changing seasons, Nick's Automotive has you covered. For the best auto service shop in Reno, call or stop by Nick's Automotive today with all your repair and maintenance needs.

Thank you for visiting Nick's Automotive in Reno, NV. You can count on our automotive repair technicians to keep your domestic or Japanese car, truck, suv, or van on the roads longer and safer. The top mechanics in Reno, NV for diagnostics, check engine light repair, engine repair, clutch services, and much more!