Accessory belt replacement intervals?

[2o6]

I just looked at my accessory belt today, it looks terrible. Frayed, very discolored, doesn't look good.



I was driving and I heard a notable squeal, alternator light came on for a second, then it went right off. I know it's not power steering; ours is electric. Not sure if a bad alternator would cause the belt to slip, or if the belt was overtightened at some point and the hot weather caused it to stretch and now it's bad.



How often is this belt supposed to be changed?

[jambo101]

Obviously its time to change that belt no matter what the interval.
I keep a log book in my glove box and write down when and at what mileage i change anything on the car so i know exactly when the last time i changed anything and i can cross reference with the owners manual that i am within parameters.
Accessory belts for me get changed every 30K which usually equates to every 2 years.
If you dont know when the Accessory belts were changed last what other maintenance items are past due for replacement,PCV valve,air filter,plugs+wires,tranny oil,radiator flush, brake fluid, brakes,tires,.

Probably 50K interval would be a reasonable time to replace the new belt.

[RedRide]

I agree..... if it looks bad just change it. Ther rule of thumb for when to change it (on any vehicle) is "when it needs to be changed".

Fortunately, the belt on the Yaris is relatively easy to change as compared to a lot of cars and for the little expense involved, it's better safe than sorry.

[jalancast]

60k-90k is a pretty typical interval, only the old eyeball is your best bet. Sounds like it's time for a new one...