The V-ribbed belt - the improved successor to the V-belt

The V-ribbed belt is the further development of the V-belt and has already largely replaced it. It transmits the power from the engine to various auxiliary units and thus ensures a functioning engine and a pleasant driving comfort. How does it differ from its predecessor, the V-belt? How does it work? How often does the drive belt have to be buyed and changed? How can you tell that it is worn out? We answer all these questions and more at the bottom of the page.

How does the V-ribbed belt work?
How to notice a worn V-ribbed belt?
What to consider when buying a V-ribbed belt and how often should it be changed?

How does the V-ribbed belt work and where is it?

The V-ribbed belt is located in the engine compartment and has the task of connecting the pulleys together. From these, the motor power is transmitted to the following auxiliaries:

Alternator
Air conditioning compressor
Hydraulic pump
Fan
power steering
Water pump

The drive belt thus provides the prerequisite for regulating the temperature in the passenger compartment, among other things, and enabling the driver to steer more easily. The drive of the alternator also ensures that the engine receives the necessary electrical energy and that important electrical consumers are supplied with power.

Since the late 1980s, the V-ribbed belt has almost completely replaced the simple V-belt. This is due to the limited function of the V-belt and the increasing requirements in cars. The further developed ribbed belt is wider and flatter and can transmit higher forces due to the higher number of longitudinal ribs. Despite a high number of auxiliary units, a single belt drive can be implemented, which in turn saves resources and the environment.

How to notice a worn V-ribbed belt?

The drive belt is subject to wear due to its constant movement. On the one hand, it can become thinner over time and rub off on the sides. On the other hand, it can also wear out and lose its tension. A loud squeak when starting at the traffic light or whistling noises while driving therefore often indicate a worn drive belt.

The ribbed belt is subject to particularly high stress and can wear out quickly, especially in winter with cold outside temperatures. Since the drive belt consists of a rubber compound, cold temperatures make it stiff and porous. This allows it to break or tear more quickly.

If the belt breaks while driving, this can cause the steering to suddenly become stiff. In addition, the alternator may also fail because it no longer generates electricity. If a defective drive belt is not replaced prematurely, this can cause engine damage in the worst case, which again entails high consequential costs.

What to look for when buying V-ribbed belts and how often should they be changed?

Regular inspections determine whether the drive belt is still functioning properly. Depending on the condition and wear of the ribbed belt, a replacement may then be necessary. Repairing the existing part, on the other hand, is hardly worthwhile because the costs for a new belt are very low compared to the repair effort. However, vehicle manufacturers do not specify an exact replacement interval for the V-ribbed belt, as this depends on the condition and quality of the currently installed spare part.

You can also carry out a visual inspection of the ribbed belt yourself, independently of the inspections:

Are cracks visible on the back?
Are parts of the reverse side worn off?
Are the pages frayed?

If the answer to one of the questions is "yes", the drive belt should be replaced as quickly as possible. As with all other spare parts, quality is also of decisive importance here. Original V-ribbed belts from vehicle manufacturers are of the highest quality and therefore mean a longer service life for the drive belt. They also offer greater safety and you can save money if the V-ribbed belt does not have to be changed so frequently. Therefore we offer a large selection of original drive belts.

Regardless of which vehicle you drive, we recommend that you have the ribbed belt checked regularly. This is the only way you can drive longer distances without worrying. No matter which vehicle you drive, we recommend that you have the ribbed belt checked regularly. This is the only way to ensure that you can take longer journeys without worrying. In our store you will find V-ribbed belts as individual parts or complete repair kits, for example, with tension pulleys and other accessories.Our Service-Team will be happy to answer any further questions on the subject and will also help you choose the right V-ribbed belt for your vehicle.