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2017 Ford Mustang GT - Squealing Serpentine Belt Replacement DIY

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 22, 2:28 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Ford Mustang GT

Hey Mustang enthusiasts,

My 2017 Ford Mustang GT (5.0L V8) has developed an annoying squeal, especially when I first start it up in the morning or when it's damp outside. It sounds like it's coming from the front of the engine, and I'm pretty sure it's the serpentine belt. The car has about 65,000 miles on it.

Is this a common issue around this mileage? How difficult is it to replace the serpentine belt on the 5.0L engine? I'm fairly handy with tools and have done some basic maintenance before, but I've never tackled a serpentine belt. Are there any special tools required, or specific things I should watch out for?

Any tips or step-by-step guides would be super helpful!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 22, 2:28 AM

0

ClearTheCode admin answer:

That squealing noise on your 2017 Ford Mustang GT is indeed a classic symptom of a worn or stretched serpentine belt, especially at 65,000 miles. It's a very common wear item and a good candidate for DIY maintenance.

Causes of Squealing:

  1. Worn Belt: The rubber can harden, crack, or lose its grip.
  2. Misalignment: Pulleys might be slightly out of alignment.
  3. Failing Pulley/Tensioner: A bearing in an idler pulley, the tensioner, or an accessory (like the alternator or AC compressor) could be failing, causing resistance and belt slip.
  4. Contamination: Oil, coolant, or other fluids on the belt can cause it to slip.

DIY Difficulty & Tools:

Replacing the serpentine belt on your 5.0L Coyote engine is a moderately easy DIY task. You'll primarily need:

  • A serpentine belt tool or a long-handled ratchet/breaker bar (typically 1/2-inch drive) to release tension on the automatic tensioner.
  • A new serpentine belt (ensure it's the correct length and number of ribs for your specific engine and accessories).

General Steps (Always consult your vehicle's service manual for exact procedure):

  1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
  2. Diagram: Before removing the old belt, draw a diagram or take a photo of the belt routing. This is crucial for correct installation.
  3. Release Tension: Locate the automatic belt tensioner. Use your serpentine belt tool or ratchet to rotate the tensioner arm, relieving tension on the belt.
  4. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tensioner, slip the old belt off one of the pulleys. Then, carefully release the tensioner and remove the belt completely.
  5. Inspect Pulleys: Spin each pulley (alternator, power steering, AC compressor, idler pulleys) by hand. They should spin smoothly with no wobble or excessive noise. If any feel rough or make noise, they may need replacement.
  6. Install New Belt: Route the new belt according to your diagram, leaving one pulley (usually an idler or the tensioner itself) for last.
  7. Tension & Final Check: Use the tool to release the tensioner again, slip the belt onto the final pulley, and slowly release the tensioner. Double-check that the belt is seated correctly in all pulley grooves.
  8. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminal and start the engine to ensure the squeal is gone and the belt runs smoothly.

When to See a Shop:

  • If the squealing persists after replacing the belt, it indicates a failing pulley or accessory. A shop can accurately diagnose which component is at fault.
  • If you're uncomfortable with the task or encounter any difficulties, a professional can perform the replacement quickly and correctly.
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