A serpentine belt is an essential part of any vehicle. It helps to run a number of the main systems in your vehicle, including the alternator, the water pump, the air conditioning compressor and the power steering in your vehicle. If your serpentine belt is worn out, it can create a problem for these and other components in your vehicle. You may notice some signs of a worn serpentine belt, and you need to pay close attention to these signs. Read on for a few of the signs that may indicate your vehicle has a worn serpentine belt and needs to be replaced.

1. Your Vehicle Is Squealing

If your vehicle is making a squealing noise and it's coming from beneath your hood, it could be the serpentine belt. You'll hear it as your vehicle is running, as the belt runs as long as the vehicle is turned on. If you hear this squealing noise as you are driving, you need to take your vehicle in to have your serpentine belt inspected and replaced as necessary. This squealing noise may not be much harm, but if you continue to drive with the belt this way, it could create a problem for other parts of your vehicle as well. Not to mention that squealing noise will get annoying after awhile.

2. Your Air Conditioner Isn't Working

Your serpentine belt helps to power your air conditioning compressor, so if you don't have air conditioning, it may not be the air conditioner at all, it could simply be the serpentine belt. If suddenly you don't have air conditioning, or you have this issue combined with another issue that the serpentine belt controls, you should have the serpentine belt inspected and replaced.

3. You Have Issues Steering

If you are having problems with your steering, such as it's more difficult to steer or turn the wheel on your vehicle, it could be due to the serpentine belt. Your serpentine belt also helps power your power steering, so if you're having to man-handle your steering wheel or it's becoming increasingly difficult to maneuver the steering on your vehicle, have the serpentine belt looked into.

If you are noticing these issues with your vehicle, the serpentine belt may be to blame. Take your vehicle in to an auto repair shop to have the belt inspected and replaced as necessary. Don't ignore these signs and continue to drive with your vehicle in this condition, it could be a costly mistake.

For more information, contact an auto repair shop in your area.