2017 Honda CR-V: Serpentine Belt Routing & Replacement

Quick Answer

• Belt Length & Rib Count: 1895mm (74.6 inches), 7-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: 31110-5K8-A01
• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References:
  • Gates: K070746
  • Dayco: 5070745
  • Continental: 4070746
• Automatic Tensioner Assembly Part Number: 31170-5K8-A01
• Idler Pulley Part Number: 31185-5K8-A01

Note: The information above applies to both the 1.5L Turbo and 2.4L non-turbo engines offered in the 2017 Honda CR-V.

Belt Routing

Before you remove the old serpentine belt, it is crucial to understand the correct routing for the new one. We highly recommend taking a clear photograph of the belt's path before you begin removal. This will serve as a valuable reference to ensure the new belt is installed correctly.

The belt follows a specific path around several engine accessories. Starting from the crankshaft pulley at the bottom of the engine, the routing is as follows:

1. Crankshaft Pulley: The belt's smooth side runs under this main pulley.
2. A/C Compressor: From the crank, the ribbed side of the belt goes over the A/C compressor pulley.
3. Idler Pulley: Next, the smooth side of the belt routes under the idler pulley.
4. Alternator: The ribbed side then wraps up and over the alternator pulley.
5. Power Steering Pump: The belt continues to the power steering pump pulley (if equipped).
6. Water Pump: From there, it wraps around the water pump pulley.
7. Tensioner Pulley: Finally, the smooth side of the belt runs against the tensioner pulley, which maintains the proper tension for the entire system.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on a 2017 Honda CR-V is a manageable task for a DIYer with the right tools. The key component you will interact with is the automatic belt tensioner.

Tools Required:

• Serpentine belt tool or a long-handled 3/8" breaker bar or ratchet.

You will need to locate the automatic tensioner, which has a pulley that presses against the belt. On the tensioner arm, there is a square 3/8" drive hole. Insert your serpentine belt tool or breaker bar into this hole.

To release the tension, you will need to rotate the tensioner arm. This will move the tensioner pulley away from the belt, creating slack. Once you have enough slack, you can slip the belt off one of the pulleys (the alternator pulley is often easily accessible). Carefully release the tensioner and then proceed to unthread the old belt from the rest of the pulleys.

To install the new belt, route it around all the pulleys except for the tensioner, following the path you noted earlier. Once the belt is correctly seated on all the other pulleys, apply force to the tensioner again to create slack, and then carefully slide the new belt onto the tensioner pulley. Double-check that the belt is properly seated in the grooves of every ribbed pulley before starting the engine.

Replacement Interval

Honda does not specify a strict mileage or time interval for serpentine belt replacement. Instead, the belt should be inspected during regular service intervals (typically every 15,000 miles). A technician will check for signs of wear and recommend replacement when necessary. As a general rule, many serpentine belts will last between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

It's important to know the warning signs of a worn belt or a failing tensioner to avoid a breakdown. A broken serpentine belt will immediately cause loss of power steering, A/C, and charging from the alternator, and can lead to engine overheating.

Signs of a bad belt:

• Squealing or chirping sounds: This is often the first sign, especially noticeable when starting the engine or turning on the A/C.
• Visible wear: Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (shiny spots), or missing ribs on the belt.

Signs of a bad tensioner:

• Rattling or grinding noise: A failing bearing inside the tensioner pulley will often make noise.
• Excessive belt vibration: If you notice the belt flapping or vibrating while the engine is running, the tensioner may not be providing adequate pressure.
• Stiff or jerky tensioner arm movement: When releasing tension with your tool, the movement should be smooth. If it's jerky or stuck, the tensioner should be replaced.

If you're not comfortable performing this service yourself, you can always find a trusted shop on Repairius.