2022 GMC Yukon Serpentine Belt Guide

Quick answer

• Engine Option: 5.3L V8 (L84)

  • Belt Length: 2355mm (92.7 inches)
  • Rib Count: 6-rib
  • OEM Belt Part Number: 12686273
  • Aftermarket Cross-References:
    • Gates: K060927
    • Dayco: 5060928
    • Continental: 6K927
  • Auto-Tensioner Part Number: 12690347
  • Idler Pulley Part Number: 12690348

• Engine Option: 6.2L V8 (L87)

  • Belt Length: 2355mm (92.7 inches)
  • Rib Count: 6-rib
  • OEM Belt Part Number: 12686273
  • Aftermarket Cross-References:
    • Gates: K060927
    • Dayco: 5060928
    • Continental: 6K927
  • Auto-Tensioner Part Number: 12690347
  • Idler Pulley Part Number: 12690348

Belt routing

Before you remove the old serpentine belt, it is crucial to either find a belt routing diagram under the hood or take a clear photograph of the belt's path. This will be an invaluable reference when you install the new belt.

The serpentine belt on the 2022 GMC Yukon with either the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engine follows this path:

1. Starts at the crankshaft pulley at the bottom of the engine.
2. Wraps around the A/C compressor pulley.
3. Goes up and around the smooth idler pulley.
4. Travels over the alternator pulley.
5. Comes down to the power steering pump pulley.
6. Goes around the water pump pulley.
7. Finishes by wrapping under the tensioner pulley, which maintains the belt's tension.

How to replace the serpentine belt

Replacing the serpentine belt is a manageable task for a DIYer with the right tool. You will need a serpentine belt tool, which is a long, thin wrench with various socket and crow's foot attachments. A long 3/8" drive breaker bar can also work in many cases.

1. Locate the tensioner: The automatic belt tensioner is typically located near the alternator or water pump. It has a pulley that the serpentine belt wraps around.
2. Release tension: Use the serpentine belt tool or breaker bar to fit into the square hole on the tensioner arm. Rotate the tensioner arm to release the tension on the belt. You don't need to unbolt the tensioner itself.
3. Remove the old belt: While holding the tensioner in the released position, carefully slip the old belt off one of the pulleys (the alternator pulley is often easiest to access).
4. Install the new belt: Following the routing diagram or your photograph, carefully thread the new belt around all the pulleys, saving one of the easier-to-reach smooth pulleys (like the idler or water pump) for last.
5. Apply tension: Once the belt is correctly routed, release the tensioner arm slowly, allowing it to apply tension to the new belt. Double-check that the belt is properly seated in the grooves of each ribbed pulley.

Replacement interval

Modern serpentine belts are durable. While there is no universally mandated replacement interval, a general guideline is to inspect the belt at every oil change and plan for replacement every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Your owner's manual may provide more specific recommendations.

Signs of a failing belt or tensioner

Be aware of these warning signs that your serpentine belt or tensioner may need replacement:

• Squealing or chirping noises: This is the most common sign, often indicating a worn or loose belt.
• Visible wear: Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny, smooth appearance), or missing ribs on the belt.
• Tensioner issues: A "bouncing" or vibrating tensioner pulley can indicate a failing tensioner spring. You may also hear a rumbling or grinding noise from the tensioner or idler pulley, which points to a worn bearing.
• System failures: A failing belt can cause the power steering to become heavy, the A/C to blow warm air, or the battery light to illuminate on the dash as the alternator stops charging.

If you're not comfortable replacing the serpentine belt yourself, Repairius can help.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.