Maintenance
Serpentine belt replacement: what it costs
Wide range: this job varies a lot. Itemize your quote for a better answer.
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts | $25 | $75 |
| Labor: 0.4 to 1.2 hours × $110 to $150 an hour | $44 | $180 |
| Fees: shop supplies, disposal, diagnostics | $0 | $10 |
| Total, rounded | $65 | $270 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in the US, $27.13 an hour, times 4 to 5.5 to cover what a shop bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Parts are a band from budget aftermarket to the manufacturer part. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your car, parts and shop change the number.
The long rubber belt that drives the alternator, power steering and A/C is replaced when it is cracked, glazed or squealing. A snapped belt can leave you stranded.
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What is usually included
- New serpentine belt
- Check the tensioner and pulleys
- Inspect for leaks that contaminate the belt
- Route and tension to spec
- Test run
What moves the price
- Tensioner replaced at the same time
- Belt routing difficulty
- Engine size and mounted accessories
- Shop labor rate
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Is the tensioner and idler pulley checked?
- Is there a squeal source other than the belt?
- Is the belt brand and part number shown?
- Should the water pump be inspected too?
Can you do it yourself?
A reasonable DIY if you take a photo of the belt routing first and have a long breaker bar; tight spaces and a spring-loaded tensioner can pinch fingers.
Shopping for the part? Search car parts on eBay (affiliate link, disclosure). Make sure the part fits your car before buying.
Common questions
How often is a belt replaced?
Many last 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Look for cracks, fraying or missing ribs, or a squeal on cold starts.
What happens if it snaps?
The battery stops charging, power steering may go heavy, and some cars overheat if the belt also drives the water pump. You may need a tow.
Is the tensioner replaced with the belt?
Not always. A weak tensioner causes noise or belt wear, so it is worth asking the shop to check it.
How much does serpentine belt replacement cost?
A typical range across the US is $65 to $270. That is an estimate from parts prices, labor hours and the local labor rate, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $75 to $300 |
| New York City area | $70 to $290 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $70 to $290 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $70 to $280 |
| Houston area, Texas | $65 to $260 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $65 to $260 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $65 to $270 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $70 to $280 |
| Miami area, Florida | $65 to $270 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $75 to $290 |