2017 Chevrolet Malibu Serpentine Belt Routing & Part Numbers

This guide provides essential information for 2017 Chevrolet Malibu owners regarding their serpentine belt, including routing, part numbers, and replacement tips. Note that specific part numbers can vary depending on the engine option your Malibu is equipped with. Always verify part numbers with a reputable parts supplier or your dealership based on your VIN.

Quick Answer

• Belt Length & Rib Count: Varies by engine. Most 2017 Malibus will use a 6-rib belt.
• OEM Belt Part Number: Varies by engine. (e.g., for 1.5L: GM 12678601; for 2.0L: GM 12678602)
• **Aftermarket Cross-References (Examples - verify for your engine):
  • Gates: K060590 (for 1.5L), K060600 (for 2.0L)
  • Dayco: 5060590 (for 1.5L), 5060600 (for 2.0L)
  • Continental Elite: 4060590 (for 1.5L), 4060600 (for 2.0L)
• Auto-Tensioner Part Number: Varies by engine. (e.g., for 1.5L: GM 12634351; for 2.0L: GM 12634352)
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Varies by engine. (e.g., for 1.5L/2.0L with AC: GM 12634353)

Belt Routing

Before you begin any work, always take a clear photograph of your existing serpentine belt routing to ensure correct reinstallation. The following describes a common routing path, but variations may exist.

To route the serpentine belt on a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu, begin by securing the belt around the largest pulley, which is typically the crankshaft pulley at the bottom front of the engine. From the crankshaft, guide the belt upwards to the A/C compressor pulley, usually located on the lower passenger side. From the A/C compressor, the belt will often travel to an idler pulley, which helps guide the belt and maintain tension. This idler pulley might be positioned at various points, often above the A/C compressor or towards the center of the engine.

After exiting the idler pulley, the belt will typically wrap around the alternator pulley, usually situated higher on the engine, often on the passenger side. From the alternator, the belt may head towards the power steering pump pulley (if equipped with a hydraulic system, otherwise this step is skipped with electric power steering). Following this, the belt will often go to the water pump pulley, usually centrally located on the engine or slightly off to one side. Finally, the belt will complete its path by engaging with the automatic tensioner pulley, which usually has a square 3/8" drive hole for a wrench or serpentine belt tool to relieve tension during installation or removal. Ensure the ribbed side of the belt sits correctly in all ribbed pulleys and the smooth side rides on any smooth idler pulleys.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on your 2017 Chevrolet Malibu is a manageable DIY task for those with some mechanical experience. You will typically need a serpentine belt tool or a 3/8-inch breaker bar to release the tension on the automatic tensioner.

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery for added safety.
2. Document Routing: As mentioned, take a clear photo of the current belt routing.
3. Release Tension: Locate the automatic belt tensioner. Insert the square drive of your serpentine belt tool or breaker bar into the corresponding hole on the tensioner. Apply steady pressure in the direction that loosens the tension (this is usually clockwise or counter-clockwise depending on the tensioner design — observe which way it moves when releasing tension).,
4. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tensioner, slip the old belt off one of the pulleys (often easiest at an idler or smooth pulley).
5. Inspect Pulleys: With the belt off, take this opportunity to manually spin each pulley by hand. Listen for grinding noises and feel for excessive play, wobbling, or resistance, which could indicate a failing bearing in a pulley or component.
6. Route New Belt: Carefully route the new serpentine belt according to your photograph or the diagram in your owner's manual. Leave one pulley (preferably an idler or smooth pulley) free for last.
7. Apply Tensioner & Install Belt: Again, apply pressure to the tensioner with your tool. While tension is relieved, slip the new belt over the last pulley. Slowly release the tensioner.
8. Verify Routing: Double-check that the belt is properly seated in all pulley grooves and that the routing matches your photograph or diagram.
9. Reconnect Battery & Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the engine and listen for any abnormal noises (squealing, chirping) which might indicate incorrect installation or a faulty component.

Replacement Interval

The serpentine belt on your 2017 Chevrolet Malibu is generally recommended for inspection at every oil change and replacement typically between 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or every 4 to 6 years. However, this can vary based on driving conditions and engine type. It's crucial to inspect it regularly for signs of wear and tear, regardless of mileage.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Ignoring a failing serpentine belt or tensioner can lead to inconvenient breakdowns and potential damage to other engine components. Be aware of these common signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is one of the most common indicators of a worn, loose, or misaligned belt. It can also point to a failing tensioner or pulley bearing.
• Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing: Visually inspect the belt. Deep cracks, missing ribs, fraying edges, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the belt surface are clear signs it needs replacement.
• Loss of Power Steering, A/C, or Charging: Since the serpentine belt drives accessories, a snapped belt will immediately result in a loss of power steering assist (if hydraulic), the air conditioning system will stop cooling, and the battery warning light will illuminate as the alternator will no longer be charging it.
• Engine Overheating: The water pump, responsible for circulating coolant, is often driven by the serpentine belt. A broken belt will cause the engine to overheat.
• Belt Wobble or Vibration: If the belt visibly wobbles excessively during operation, it could indicate a failing tensioner that's no longer maintaining proper tension.
• Grinding or Growling from Pulleys: These noises often come from failing bearings in a pulley (tensioner, idler, or accessory pulley). This can lead to belt damage or failure.

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