Serpentine Belt

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the serpentine belt on the 2018-2024 Honda Accord 1.5L turbocharged engine, including tensioner inspection and routing verification.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Serpentine drive belt × 1 — Honda OEM 56992-6A0-A01 or equivalent

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Turn engine off and allow to cool for at least 30 minutes
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Photograph or sketch the serpentine belt routing path around all pulleys
5. Inspect engine bay for clearance to access belt tensioner from above

Procedure

1. 1

   Locate belt routing and tensioner
   Identify the automatic belt tensioner located on the lower front right side of the engine (when facing engine from front). Verify the belt routing path around the crankshaft pulley, water pump, alternator, A/C compressor, and idler pulleys. The tensioner is spring-loaded and applies constant pressure to maintain belt tension.
2. 2

   Remove engine cover if equipped
   Some Accord models have a plastic engine cover. If present, remove by pulling upward on the cover to release the rubber mounting grommets. Set cover aside in a clean area.
3. 3

   Inspect belt condition before removal
   Examine the existing belt for cracks, glazing, missing ribs, fraying, or contamination from oil or coolant. Note any damage to pulleys or misalignment. Measure belt wear if using a wear gauge. This inspection helps identify any additional components that may need service.
4. 4

   Relieve belt tension
   Using a 3/8" ratchet or breaker bar, insert tool into the square hole in the belt tensioner arm. Rotate the tensioner clockwise (toward the engine) to compress the tensioner spring and relieve belt tension. The tensioner will rotate approximately 90 degrees. Maintain steady pressure throughout belt removal.
   ⚠The tensioner is spring-loaded and will snap back forcefully if released suddenly. Maintain controlled pressure on the tool at all times.
5. 5

   Remove serpentine belt
   While holding tension on the tensioner, slip the belt off the nearest pulley (typically the alternator or idler pulley). Once the belt is free from one pulley, slowly release the tensioner and allow it to return to its resting position. Remove the belt from all remaining pulleys and extract from engine bay.
6. 6

   Inspect pulleys and tensioner
   With belt removed, manually spin each pulley to check for bearing noise, roughness, or excessive play. Inspect tensioner for smooth operation and check that it returns to proper resting position. Look for oil leaks on crankshaft pulley seal. Check all pulley surfaces for scoring, wear, or debris buildup.
7. 7

   Route new belt
   Starting at the crankshaft pulley, route the new belt following the documented routing path. Typical routing is: crankshaft pulley (bottom), A/C compressor, alternator, water pump, idler pulley, with tensioner applying pressure. Ensure the ribbed side of the belt contacts all pulleys except any smooth idler pulleys. Leave the tensioner pulley for last.
   ⚠Incorrect belt routing will cause immediate belt failure and potential damage to accessories. Verify routing matches diagram before applying tension.
8. 8

   Install belt on tensioner pulley
   Using the 3/8" tool, rotate the tensioner clockwise again to create slack. Position the belt over the tensioner pulley, ensuring the ribs are properly seated in all pulley grooves. Slowly release the tensioner, allowing it to apply proper tension to the new belt. Verify belt is centered on all pulleys.
9. 9

   Verify belt installation
   Double-check that the belt is properly seated in all pulley grooves and follows the correct routing path. Manually rotate the crankshaft pulley two complete revolutions clockwise (using a socket on the crankshaft bolt) while observing the belt. Ensure belt tracks properly and does not slip or misalign on any pulley.
10. 10

    Reinstall engine cover
    If engine cover was removed, align the cover mounting grommets with the posts on the engine and press down firmly until all grommets are fully seated. Verify cover is secure and level.

Reassembly

1. Confirm belt routing matches the original configuration or official Honda routing diagram
2. Ensure all tools and parts are removed from engine bay
3. Verify no fasteners, covers, or connections were left disconnected

Verification

• Start engine and listen for unusual squealing, chirping, or slapping noises from belt area
• Observe belt operation at idle for 30-60 seconds to confirm proper tracking and tension
• Rev engine to approximately 2000 RPM briefly and verify no belt slip or noise occurs
• After test drive, re-inspect belt alignment and listen for any abnormal sounds
• Check for proper alternator charging (battery warning light should be off)

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