We love our engines
Quick Answer: Idler pulley replacement typically costs $40–$90 for the part if doing it yourself, or $150–$300 at a shop (including labor). It’s a moderate DIY job that most backyard mechanics can handle in under an hour. It was a cold December morning last year, the kind where your breath hangs in the air inside … Read more
Quick Answer: Where Do I Find My Belt Diagram? Most vehicles have a sticker placed by the manufacturer in the engine bay, usually on the radiator support, the strut tower, or the underside of the hood. If that sticker is faded or gone, check your owner’s manual or repair manual (like Haynes or Chilton). For … Read more
It was a scorching July afternoon when Sarah’s 2015 Honda Accord rolled into my bay with the AC blasting—or at least trying to. The compressor was cycling on and off, the battery light flickered occasionally, and she mentioned a “weird squealing” that started three days ago but went away. I popped the hood, and there … Read more
From a shop that’s swapped 1,200+ belts—here’s exactly how to do it right the first time, save $180–$350, and avoid the “tow-of-shame” home. Quick Answer Expect 45–90 minutes, a $28–$65 belt, and basic hand tools. If the belt is cracked, glazed, or squealing, replace it before it snaps and leaves you stranded. Routing diagram under-hood … Read more
Quick Answer: A squealing noise from your engine bay is most often caused by a worn serpentine belt, failing belt tensioner, or a seized pulley (like the alternator or power steering pump). Ignoring it can lead to overheating, battery failure, or even engine damage. Fixing it yourself is usually a moderate-difficulty job, costing $20-$100 … Read more