Belt Tensioner

Easy

⏱ 30-60 min📅 Every 80-100K mi▶ Watch Videos

Shop Cost

$200

DIY Parts

$45

You Save

$155

Tools Required (2)

Serpentine belt tool

Socket set

Belt tensionerSerpentine beltIdler pulley

Pro Tip Wobbling pulley or no spring-back = replace. Do belt + tensioner + idler together.

Honda

Auto-tensioner with 14mm bolt. Idles slightly rough if tensioner is weak.

Toyota

Single bolt tensioner (14mm). Replace idler pulley at same time.

Ford

3/8 square drive hole. Use ratchet to release. 15mm bolt for tensioner removal.

BMW

16mm hex on tensioner. Mechanical spring style. Check for play/wobble in pulley.

Chevrolet

15mm on tensioner bolt. LS engines: easy access. Do belt + tensioner + idler together.

Subaru

12mm adjustment on older. Auto-tensioner on newer. Replace idler pulleys too.