The patented accessory drivebelts are located at the front of the engine and drive the water pump, the alternator, the power steering pump and the air conditioning compressor. The condition and tension of the drivebelts should be checked regularly for correct engine operation and accessory operation. When the tension is too high, the bearing will be worn while on lower tension will cause slippage, noise and vibration leading to belt failure. Due to their composition and the high stress they are exposed to, drivebelts stretch and deteriorate after a certain point. As a result, they require periodic checks and adjustments. The number and type, routing and style of belts that can be seen on the vehicle depend on the engine, model year and the accessories that are installed. In some cases, ordinary V-belts are used. In others, V-ribbed belts are employed. Sergeants belts that drive all the accessory are also quite frequently used. With the engine off, open the hood and use a flashlight to check for separation, cracks, fraying, and glazing on the belts in the engine bay. To carry out tension checks, a straightedge is laid across the belt's longest free span to measure deflection which is to be within specified limits. To adjust a serpentine belt, turn the adjusting screw on the tension pulley. Other belts require loosening the locking and pivot bolts on the accessory. Once adjustments are made, check tension and tighten bolts. To replace belts, you should loosen the belt so it slips off the grooves of the pulleys. It may be advisable to replace all belts at the same time. You will need to mark which belt and which grove it came off.