For proper installation, route the drive strap clockwise from the crankshaft wheel, guiding it beneath the tensioner and continuing around the alternator, water circulator, and A/C compressor in the specified pattern. Always ensure the grooved side of the loop contacts ribbed pulleys, while the flat surface faces smooth rollers.
Inspect the automatic tensioner arm for smooth movement. A stiff or erratic response indicates internal wear, which can cause misalignment or slippage. Apply a 3/8″ square drive to the tensioner socket to relieve pressure during replacement, maintaining correct torque levels when reinstalling.
When referencing the layout chart under the hood, match the path exactly. Incorrect alignment may lead to component failure, increased friction, or premature wear. Double-check pulley orientation and belt width compatibility before finalizing assembly.
For variants with power steering delete, skip the corresponding wheel and use a shorter loop. Vehicles with optional dual accessory systems may require a secondary routing path – consult the under-hood label or OEM documentation for this alternate setup.
Component Layout and Routing Guide
Begin by locating the crankshaft pulley at the lower front of the engine block; this serves as the starting point for routing. From there, the drive loop should travel upward to the air conditioning compressor on the passenger side.
Next, guide the tensioner arm by rotating it clockwise using a 3/8” square drive inserted into the socket on the pulley mount. This releases slack, allowing proper alignment.
Ensure the routing continues over the alternator pulley positioned at the top center, then downward to the water pump hub, which sits directly below it. Avoid twisting or misaligning the ribs during installation.
Loop the remaining section around the power steering component, then finish by securing the path over the idler wheel, situated between the compressor and alternator. Double-check contact with all grooved pulleys and verify tension before starting the engine.
How to Locate and Identify the Serpentine Belt on a 2010 Nissan Altima
Begin by accessing the engine compartment from the front of the vehicle. Remove the plastic engine cover if present to expose the accessory drive system. Focus on the passenger side near the front of the motor; the routing component is positioned between the crankshaft pulley at the bottom and the alternator above.
Use a flashlight to inspect the path of the ribbed drive. Look for a long, continuous rubber loop wrapping around multiple rotating components. It should loop around the power steering pump, alternator, and air conditioning compressor. A spring-loaded tensioner pulley will be pressing against it–this is key for identifying the correct routing.
Refer to the label under the hood or consult a factory service manual if routing is unclear. The part in question runs through several pulleys in a precise configuration, as illustrated below:
| Component | Position | Contact Type |
|---|---|---|
| Crankshaft Pulley | Lower center | Direct contact |
| Alternator | Upper right | Driven |
| Power Steering Pump | Upper left | Driven |
| AC Compressor | Lower right | Driven |
| Tensioner Pulley | Center left | Maintains tension |
| Idler Pulley | Above crankshaft | Guides path |
Use a 3/8-inch ratchet or serpentine tool to rotate the tensioner and relieve pressure before removal. Ensure the routing matches the original path during reinstallation to prevent misalignment and premature wear.
Step-by-Step Guide to Routing the Belt Correctly
Start by locating the tensioner near the passenger side of the engine bay. Use a 3/8″ drive ratchet to rotate the tensioner clockwise and relieve pressure.
- Slip the loop over the crankshaft pulley at the bottom center of the engine.
- Route the band under the A/C compressor located on the lower passenger side.
- Wrap it around the alternator pulley on the upper driver side.
- Guide it around the water pump pulley directly above the crankshaft.
- Ensure it passes over the idler near the center of the system.
- Leave the tensioner pulley for last, maintaining slack until final placement.
Double-check alignment on every wheel–misalignment can cause noise or premature wear. Verify that all grooves match pulley channels and that the outside surface contacts flat pulleys only.
Common Signs of Belt Wear and When to Replace It
Replace the serpentine component immediately if you hear high-pitched squealing during engine startup or acceleration–this often indicates glazing or misalignment.
Inspect for visible cracks, fraying, or missing chunks along the ribbed surface. Any such damage compromises performance and can lead to sudden failure.
If power steering becomes inconsistent or the air conditioning cycles on and off erratically, the tension system may no longer maintain proper grip, requiring part replacement.
A noticeable drop in battery charge could result from reduced alternator function due to worn grooves or slack in the drive system.
Shiny, smooth areas on the underside typically point to slippage caused by overheating or oil contamination. Replace immediately to avoid accessory loss.
Check for side-to-side movement or wobble while the engine runs. Lateral deviation often suggests pulley misalignment or deteriorated material integrity.