In many ways, the belts and hoses under the hood of your car are the unsung heroes of automotive design. Simple in construction and hidden in plain sight, they ensure that various components operate and receive the fluids they require. Yet, despite their importance, many drivers neglect to inspect them. The belts and hoses are essentially forgotten, expected to fulfill their respective jobs without fail. The problem is, they can fail, setting the stage for numerous mechanical problems.

In this article, we'll present some of the consequences of neglecting to check your car's belts and hoses. We'll also describe the factors that contribute to their deterioration.

Consequences Of Deteriorated Belts And Hoses

Leaking hoses and snapped - or loose - belts expose your engine to overheating. Coolant hoses are an integral part of your vehicle's cooling system. They deliver coolant to the engine in order to absorb heat, and transfer heated coolant to the radiator, where the heat is released. This ensures your engine's operating temperature remains within a manageable range.

Most vehicles are also equipped with a timing chain and one or more serpentine belts. The timing chain powers the crankshaft, which in turn powers the camshafts. The camshafts influence the timing of the intake and exhaust valves in the engine. If the timing chain breaks or becomes loose, the valves may fail to open and close at the proper times. The pistons can hit the valves, causing serious damage.

Serpentine belts run a number of components, such as the water pump, steering pump, air pump, and alternator. In some cases, a single belt wraps around several pulleys, and controls all of these parts. Other times, each component is controlled by its own belt. If a belt breaks or becomes loose, the components it operates will stop working. Here, a belt failure can cause a disruption in the electrical system (e.g. alternator) or cooling system (e.g. water pump), as well as other issues.

For the above reasons, it is important to inspect your car's belts and hoses periodically. Minor loosening or small leaks (respectively) can lead to much larger problems down the road.

A Closer Look At Your Car's Hoses

Hoses are the weakest link in your vehicle's cooling system. Although they are designed to handle the intense pressure and temperature variance to which they are exposed, they are constructed of rubber. The rubber material is susceptible to deterioration. As noted earlier, where coolant is involved, leaks can cause your engine to overheat. Where fuel is involved, the engine's cylinders may not receive the fuel needed to produce a clean combustion cycle. And where hoses maintain engine vacuum, leaks can cause a rough idle or stall.

Inspect the hoses by squeezing them at various places, including near the clamps. Look for tiny fissures and bulges, and take note of segments that feel particularly soft. These are signs of pending failure. If you notice them, replace the hose.

Belt Inspection And Replacement

Although the timing chain and serpentine belts operate in slightly different circumstances than hoses, they are exposed to similar elements. For example, heat is a major contributing factor to belt failure. It can compromise a belt's structural integrity over time, and cause it to crack, fray, loosen, and even snap. Another factor is the continuous stretching belts undergo as they are pulled across multiple pulleys.

Examine the belts closely for signs of fraying or cracks. Look at both sides, taking particular note of the teeth on the underside. If you notice cracks, lost teeth, or glazing, replace the belt.

A Small Investment In Your Vehicle's Longevity

Periodic inspections of your belts and hoses will help to ensure your vehicle's parts and systems remain in good condition as long as possible. Replacements are inexpensive, and can usually be installed easily, even if you have little experience working on cars. The effort and money you spend represent a good investment since they can prevent expensive damage to your engine, cylinder head, and other components.