This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the serpentine drive belt on the 2012-2017 Toyota Camry with the 2.5L I4 engine, including proper routing and tensioner operation.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Serpentine belt × 1 — Use OEM specification for 2AR-FE engine

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level ground and engage parking brake
2. Allow engine to cool completely if recently operated
3. Open hood and secure with prop rod
4. Take a photo of the existing belt routing for reference, or locate the belt routing diagram on the radiator support

Procedure

1. 1

   Inspect existing belt condition
   Before removal, inspect the current belt for wear patterns, cracks, or glazing. Note any abnormal wear that might indicate pulley misalignment or bearing issues that should be addressed.
2. 2

   Locate and access the belt tensioner
   The automatic belt tensioner is located on the right side of the engine (driver's side) below the alternator. It has a 14mm hex bolt head in the center. Ensure you have clear access to rotate the tensioner.
3. 3

   Relieve belt tension
   Using a 14mm socket with breaker bar or serpentine belt tool, insert into the tensioner bolt and rotate the tensioner clockwise (when viewed from the front) to relieve tension. The tensioner should move smoothly without binding. Rotate approximately 90 degrees until tension is released from the belt.
   ⚠Maintain firm control of the breaker bar. The tensioner spring is very strong and can cause the tool to slip suddenly.
4. 4

   Remove serpentine belt
   While holding the tensioner in the released position, slip the belt off the alternator pulley first, then release the tensioner slowly. Once tension is released, remove the belt from the remaining pulleys. Work the belt out from below or above the engine compartment depending on clearance.
5. 5

   Inspect pulleys and tensioner
   With the belt removed, manually spin each pulley (crankshaft, water pump, A/C compressor, power steering pump, idler, and tensioner) to check for rough bearing noise, wobble, or excessive resistance. Check the tensioner arm for smooth operation and inspect the tensioner pulley surface for wear or damage.
6. 6

   Route new belt onto pulleys
   Following the belt routing diagram (or your reference photo), route the new belt onto all pulleys EXCEPT the alternator pulley. The typical routing is: crankshaft (bottom) → A/C compressor → idler pulley → water pump → power steering pump → tensioner pulley, leaving alternator for last. Ensure the belt is properly seated in all pulley grooves.
7. 7

   Install belt onto alternator
   Using the 14mm socket and breaker bar, rotate the tensioner clockwise again to release tension. While holding the tensioner, slip the belt onto the alternator pulley. Verify the belt is fully seated in the pulley groove, then slowly release the tensioner to apply proper tension to the belt.
8. 8

   Verify belt routing and seating
   Double-check that the belt is correctly routed according to the diagram and properly seated in all pulley grooves. The belt should sit centered on each pulley with no misalignment. Verify the ribbed side contacts all pulleys correctly (smooth side only contacts tensioner pulley and one idler if equipped).

Reassembly

1. No disassembly was required for this procedure, so no reassembly steps are necessary
2. Ensure all tools are removed from engine compartment before closing hood

Verification

• Start the engine and observe belt operation. The belt should run smoothly without slipping, squealing, or flutter
• Listen for any unusual noises from pulleys or tensioner that might indicate bearing failure
• Verify proper operation of all belt-driven accessories: alternator (battery light off), A/C compressor (A/C functions), power steering pump (smooth steering), and water pump (normal operating temperature)
• After 5 minutes of operation, shut off engine and recheck belt routing and seating while engine cools
• After 100 miles of driving, visually inspect belt condition and verify no unusual wear patterns have developed

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