Buying Auto Parts -- Selecting the Best in Belts and Hoses

Introduction

It is very important that you take the time to do your homework before you begin the task of shopping around for auto parts. This is very important when you are seeking auto parts such as belts and hoses.

Through this article, you are provided with some basic information about auto parts, shopping for auto parts -- specifically about belts and hoses.

The Most Common Need in Auto Parts Today

The most common vehicle breakdown is a belt or hose that has broken. So to keep from finding yourself stranded because this has happened to you it is important to check your belts and hoses frequently. It is a good rule of thumb to make sure and have all your belts and hoses checked each time you have an oil change to ensure that these workhorses of your car’s engine are in good working order.

A Primer on Auto Parts -- A Close Look at Belts and Hoses

The belts and hoses in a vehicle are made of rubber and because of the extreme temperature changes and normal wear and tear from everyday use; they can become dry and cracked. Often times the wear on a belt or hose is not visible to the eye because they can become worn inside the hose or belt and weaken so sticking to a regime of having them checked when you have your oil changed is prudent. Additionally when they are being checked, the mechanic can also see if the belts have become loose due to the vibration of the engine.

How Belts and Hoses Work

The belts in a car wrap around pulleys that power many other parts of your car and if they are defective they can cause breakdowns, costly repairs, battery failure and overheated engines. You car’s belts make more than 30 million revolutions each year so they are prone to breaking. It is a rule of thumb by mechanics to replace all the belts in a vehicle every four years.
When you take your car to a mechanic to check your belts and hoses, they will inspect them for glazing and cracking, proper tension, and proper alignment of the pulleys. A visual inspection is not sufficient to find a bad hose. Even though the hose is not leaking is may still be faulty. To check a hose, you can pinch it and check for cracks, brittleness and mushiness to see if it is still in good working order.

Shopping Around for Belts, Hoses and Other Auto Parts

Belts and hoses can be found at any auto parts store and if you have a real unusual vehicle they may need to special order them. Additionally, belts and hoses can be replaced at any auto dealership that specializes in your make of vehicle.