How Long Can You Drive With A Bad Idler Pulley?
The pulleys create some rotating points for the belts to stay on their designated loop. How bad can it be when any of these pulleys are damaged or broken? How long can you drive with a bad idler pulley?
Most engines have one idler and one tensioner pulley, but some units may have more than one idler pulleys. These parts will wear out over time and have to be replaced.
The Symptoms Of A Bad Idler Pulley
Idler pulleys do the function of guiding and tensioning the engine drive belts. The drive belts pass through various engine components including the power steering pump, water pump, alternator, and AC compressor.
Before knowing the danger of a worn-out idler pulley, you should know about the symptoms to detect a bad pulley in the first place. You should be worried if these warning signs occur:
1. Squealing Noise
The engine belts will make a squealing noise when there is an issue with the idler pulley. It could be a worn-out surface or a pulley that gets stuck. The lack of motion from the pulley makes the engine belt rub against its surface and yield the squealing sound.
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2. Worn Out Surface
If you spot the squeaking noise, you should check the idler pulley for any visible wear. Due to the continuous rotation, the component is supposed to deteriorate over time.
Be prepared to change the pulley if you see scoring marks on its surface. It will ultimately lose tension and cause belt slipping.
3. Damaged Pulley Or Bearing
This is even more visible than the worn-out surface. Sometimes, the pulley or bearing wears out to the point of cracking or breaking apart.
This affects the belt’s rotation and creates problems with engine functions. It can also cause the belt to fall off of its slot, leading to an stalled and overheated engine.
How Long Can You Drive With A Bad Idler Pulley?
The idler pulley has a crucial part in the overall engine operation. The proper functions of all engine components partly depend on drive belts and pulleys.
Take the vehicle to a repair shop if you suspect that the pulley is having an issue. Remember that they need replacement at regular intervals, especially in high mileage cars.
A damaged pulley can cause the drive or serpentine belt to dislodge. If that happens, all components that derive power from that belt will stop functioning.
On most vehicles, these parts include the alternator, water pump, power steering, air conditioning system, and different exhaust components.
This could be dangerous. For example, a non-operational power steering could cause an accident. The engine can get overheated and then damaged due to a dysfunctional water pump.
How To Prevent Idler Pulley From Turning Bad
Because idler pulleys are dependent on bearings, there isn’t much that can be done to keep them from failing. Bearings deteriorate with time, causing pulley damage.
However, cleaning the car engine on a regular basis may assist maintain the idler pulley’s function and extend its life. Furthermore, engine cleaning has several mechanical advantages.
When replacing engine components, do not use low-quality parts simply because they are less expensive. Low-quality parts corrode and wear out faster, affecting the operation of other parts connected to them.
The idler pulley is critical to the engine’s operation. Many engine components rely on the idler pulley and drive belts to function. As a result, if your car exhibits any defective idler pulley symptoms, take it to an auto service center as soon as possible.
FAQs on Bad Idler Pulley
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When should you replace an idler pulley?
100,000 miles
After 100,000 kilometers on the clock, you may need to replace the idler. However, depending on driving style and operational conditions, it might wear out sooner.
Also, keep an eye out for strange engine bay noises or other pulley and belt tensioner failure indicators to determine whether it’s time to replace the item.
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Is a loud idler pulley a bad thing?
When the idler pulley wears out, it may generate noises. For example, if you hear the idler pulley or the motor belt region screeching, this is a sign that the idler pulley may not be functioning for much longer.
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Should you replace the idler pulley when you change the belt?
We recommend that technicians repair a pulley anytime a timing belt or serpentine belt is changed, but there are some crucial warning signals to check for when a pulley fails.
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Why is there a clicking sound coming from my idler pulley?
A worn-out pulley or idler tension pulley can also generate a clicking sound while the belt spins. If the sound becomes louder as the vehicle’s RPMs rise, the problem is most likely with the belt or pulley itself.
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What is the distinction between an idler and a tensioner pulley?
The only physical distinction between an idler and a tensioner pulley is a simple adjustable bolt!
However, in terms of function and purpose, an idler pulley guides a belt drive in an engine or mechanical system, whereas a tensioner pulley stresses the drive belt.
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Will a car start if the idler pulley is damaged?
A faulty idler pulley will undoubtedly prohibit your alternator from charging correctly, resulting in a dead battery, which will, of course, prevent the engine from starting.
Check out this video ChrisFix to learn more about how to fix a squeaky pulley in your car in most easy methods!
Wrapping Up
So, how long can you drive with a bad idler pulley? The safety recommendation is not to drive the car at all and take it to a mechanic immediately. You should be concerned if the vehicle makes squeaking or rattling noises.
The car can still run for months or break after a few days. You should not take the risk as it could lead to engine failure if not taken immediate steps.
