What is the purpose of a serpentine belt?

The purpose of a serpentine belt is to drive multiple devices in an engine, making it an essential component of the vehicle's mechanical system. Typically, the serpentine belt connects various engine accessories to the crankshaft, enabling them to function together. These accessories often include the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, air conditioning compressor, and sometimes even the vehicle's cooling system.

By efficiently powering these components, the serpentine belt plays a vital role in the overall operation of the engine and the vehicle as a whole. Its design allows for a single, continuous belt to handle multiple functions, which simplifies the engine layout and reduces the need for multiple belts, ultimately enhancing reliability and ease of maintenance.