Serpentine belt replacement cost
The average serpentine belt replacement costs $154 – $212 at a repair shop, before taxes and fees. Parts run about $65 – $82 and labor about $89 – $130.
Quick answer
$154 – $212parts and labor
Most drivers pay $154 – $212. On popular models the estimate ranges from $136 to $303, depending on the vehicle.
Average serpentine belt replacement cost
| Item | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Parts | $65 – $82 |
| Labor | $89 – $130 |
| Total (national average) | $154 – $212 |
Before taxes and fees. Source: RepairPal national estimate, September 2026.
- Labor$89–$13060%
- Parts$65–$8240%
Share of a typical repair bill, using the middle of each range.
Cost by vehicle
| Vehicle | Estimated cost |
|---|---|
| Ford F-150 | $136 – $181 |
| Toyota Camry | $145 – $204 |
| Chevrolet Silverado 1500 | $196 – $303 |
RepairPal estimates for recent model years; your year, engine and trim can change the price.
What the job involves
The serpentine (drive) belt runs the alternator, AC compressor, power steering pump and often the water pump. Replacement is usually quick: release the tensioner, route the new belt and check the pulleys.
Warning signs
- Squealing at startup or when turning on the AC
- Cracks, missing chunks or glazing on the belt
- Battery light or heavy steering if the belt slips or breaks
- Overheating on engines where the belt drives the water pump
Can you keep driving?
If the belt breaks, you lose charging and often power steering and engine cooling. Pull over safely and have the car towed.
What changes the price
- Your vehicle. Parts for trucks, European and luxury models usually cost more, and on some engines the mechanic has to remove other parts first, which adds labor hours.
- Where you go. Dealers often charge 25% or more above independent shops. Most shops bill about $120 to $159 an hour (AAA, citing a 2025 PartsTech survey).
- The parts. OEM (factory) parts cost more than aftermarket or remanufactured parts. Ask which ones the estimate uses and what warranty comes with them.
- Extras. Related parts found during the job, fluids, shop supply fees and sales tax are not included in these averages.
How to pay less
- Replace a noisy tensioner or idler pulley at the same time.
- Belts are inexpensive; replace one that shows cracks before it leaves you stranded.
How to get a fair estimate
- Ask for a written estimate that lists parts, labor hours and the shop’s hourly rate before any work starts.
- Ask whether the quote uses OEM, aftermarket or remanufactured parts, and what warranty comes with the parts and the labor.
- Get a second quote for any repair over a few hundred dollars. Independent shops often charge less per hour than dealers.
- Ask the shop to show you the old part or the reading that proves it failed, and to call you before doing extra work.
- Check for recalls and warranty coverage first: many powertrain, emissions and hybrid parts carry longer factory warranties.
Frequently asked questions
How much does serpentine belt replacement cost?
About $154 to $212 on average at a repair shop, including $65 to $82 for parts and $89 to $130 for labor, before taxes and fees.
Sources
Prices are national averages and typical ranges from published cost data. Your price depends on your vehicle, location, parts and shop, so get a written estimate. Car Repair Atlas is not a repair shop; read our disclaimer.