2019 Chevrolet Equinox — Serpentine Belt Routing, Length & Part Numbers

As an ASE-certified master technician, I’ve serviced countless modern SUVs, and the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox is a frequent visitor to the bay. Whether you are dealing with the highly popular 1.5L turbocharged engine or the 2.0L turbo, maintaining your accessory drive system is critical to keeping your Equinox on the road. A broken belt will quickly leave you stranded without an alternator, water pump, or air conditioning.

Below is your comprehensive reference guide for the 2019 Chevrolet Equinox serpentine belt system, focusing primarily on the common 1.5L engine variant.

Quick Answer

Note: The following specifications are for the 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (LYX). The 2.0L turbo and 1.6L diesel engines use different belt lengths and part numbers. Always verify with your VIN before purchasing.

• Belt Length: 41.5 inches (1054 mm)
• Rib Count: 6-rib design
• OEM Belt Part Number: ACDelco 12663625 (GM Genuine)
• Aftermarket Cross-References: Gates K060415, Continental Elite 4060415, Dayco 5060415
• Auto-Tensioner Part Number: ACDelco 12690065 (Assembly)
• Idler Pulley Part Number: ACDelco 12668549 (If equipped/applicable based on AC configuration)

Belt Routing

Modern vehicles like the 2019 Equinox utilize Electric Power Steering (EPS), which means there is no power steering pump on the accessory drive belt. This simplifies the routing compared to older vehicles.

Pro-Tip: Always take a clear photo of your existing belt with your smartphone before you remove it. It will save you a massive headache later.

Routing Path (1.5L Engine):

1. Start by looping the belt around the bottom of the Crankshaft Pulley (the main drive pulley at the bottom of the engine).
2. Route the belt straight up and over the top of the Alternator.
3. Pull the belt down from the alternator and route it under the Water Pump Pulley.
4. Bring the belt up and over the A/C Compressor.
5. Finally, slip the backside (smooth side) of the belt under the Auto-Tensioner Pulley while holding the tensioner open.

(Note: Depending on your exact trim and whether it has heavy-duty cooling, an additional idler pulley may be present between the alternator and AC compressor. Follow the smooth-to-smooth, ribbed-to-ribbed rule).

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the belt on the 1.5L Equinox is a manageable job for a competent DIYer, though space can be a bit tight against the passenger side frame rail.

Tools Required:

• Serpentine belt tool or a long-handled 3/8" drive breaker bar.
• Jack and jack stands (if accessing through the passenger wheel well).
• 10mm socket to remove the splash shield (if necessary).

Step-by-Step:

1. Locate the Tensioner: Find the automatic belt tensioner located near the front-center of the engine block.
2. Release Tension: Insert your 3/8" breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into the square receptacle on the tensioner arm. Rotate the tensioner counter-clockwise (towards the front of the vehicle) to relieve tension on the belt.
3. Remove the Belt: While holding the tensioner open, slide the old belt off the easiest accessible pulley (usually the alternator or water pump). Carefully release the tensioner back to its resting position.
4. Route the New Belt: Follow your photograph or the routing description above. Ensure the ribbed side of the belt seats perfectly into the grooves of the ribbed pulleys, and the smooth side rides flush against the tensioner.
5. Apply Tension: Rotate the tensioner counter-clockwise again, slip the belt over the final pulley, and slowly release the tensioner so it clamps down on the new belt. Inspect all pulleys with a flashlight to ensure the belt is perfectly seated.

Replacement Interval

General Motors recommends inspecting the serpentine belt at every oil change. However, as an industry best practice, you should plan to replace the serpentine belt every 60,000 to 90,000 miles.

Additionally, the automatic belt tensioner uses an internal spring that fatigues over time. I strongly recommend replacing the tensioner assembly simultaneously with the belt once you cross the 100,000-mile mark.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Don't wait for the belt to snap on the highway. Look out for these common warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping: High-pitched noises on startup, especially in wet or cold weather, indicate a stretched belt or a weak tensioner spring.
• Visible Wear: Look for missing ribs, deep cracks, fraying edges, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the ribbed side of the belt. (Note: Modern EPDM belts do not crack as obviously as older neoprene belts; they wear down like tire tread).
• Accessory Issues: Dimming headlights, a weak battery, or an A/C system that stops blowing cold can all point to a slipping belt.
• Tensioner Movement: With the engine running, the tensioner arm should remain mostly stable. If it is bouncing erratically, the internal dampener is blown and the tensioner must be replaced.

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