2019 Honda CR-V Serpentine Belt Routing, Length & Part Numbers

As an ASE-certified master technician, one of the most common maintenance items I see on the fifth-generation Honda CR-V is the serpentine belt. The 2019 Honda CR-V is incredibly reliable, but its drive belt (which runs the alternator, water pump, and A/C compressor) is a wear item that eventually requires replacement.

Whether you have the 1.5L Turbo engine (most common for EX, EX-L, and Touring) or the 2.4L naturally aspirated engine (LX trim), having the right part numbers and routing diagram is critical for a smooth repair.

Quick answer

Here are the key specifications and part numbers for the 2019 Honda CR-V (1.5L Turbo engine specifications shown, as it is the most common):

• Belt length: 43.7 inches (1110 mm)
• Rib count: 6-rib
• OEM belt PN: 31110-5AA-A01
• Aftermarket cross-refs: Gates K060437, Dayco 5060438, Continental Elite 4060437
• Auto-tensioner PN: 31170-5AA-A01
• Idler pulley PN: 31190-5AA-A01
• (Note: 2.4L LX models use a different belt length and OEM PN 31110-5LA-A01. Always verify with your parts supplier based on your VIN.)

Belt routing

Pro Tip: Always use your smartphone to photograph the existing belt in place before you remove it. It will save you a massive headache if you forget the path!

Because the 2019 Honda CR-V uses Electronic Power Steering (EPS), there is no power steering pump on the accessory drive. The belt routing is relatively compact. Starting from the bottom and working clockwise, the correct belt routing is:

1. Down around the ribbed Crankshaft Pulley (bottom center).
2. Forward and around the ribbed A/C Compressor (bottom front).
3. Up to the ribbed Alternator pulley (top front).
4. Across the smooth Idler Pulley / Water Pump (top rear).
5. Down and under the smooth Auto-Tensioner pulley, bringing the belt back to the crankshaft.

How to replace the serpentine belt

Replacing the belt on a 2019 CR-V can be done in your driveway with basic hand tools. The clearance on the passenger side of the engine bay is somewhat tight, so you will need a dedicated serpentine belt tool or a long-handled 3/8" breaker bar.

1. Locate the tensioner: Find the auto-tensioner assembly located just below the alternator.
2. Release the tension: Place a 14mm or 17mm socket (depending on engine/aftermarket hardware) on the tensioner pulley bolt. Using your breaker bar, slowly push the tensioner counter-clockwise (toward the firewall/rear of the vehicle) to release tension on the belt.
3. Remove the old belt: While holding the tensioner back, slip the belt off the easiest accessible pulley (usually the alternator). Slowly let the tensioner return to its resting position.
4. Route the new belt: Feed the new belt down to the crankshaft and route it exactly as described above, leaving the alternator or tensioner for last. Ensure the belt ribs are perfectly seated in the grooves of all the ribbed pulleys.
5. Install: Pull the tensioner back one more time, slip the belt over the final pulley, and slowly release the tensioner. Double-check all pulleys with a flashlight to ensure the belt is properly seated.

Replacement interval

For the 2019 Honda CR-V, the serpentine belt should be inspected at every oil change once the vehicle hits 50,000 miles. Typically, the replacement interval falls between 60,000 and 90,000 miles, or every 5 to 7 years. Modern EPDM belts do not crack as obviously as older neoprene belts, so age and mileage are better indicators than visual inspection alone.

Signs of a failing belt or tensioner

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

• Squealing or chirping: A high-pitched noise on startup or during heavy acceleration usually indicates a stretched belt or a weak auto-tensioner spring.
• Battery warning light: If the belt is slipping, the alternator cannot charge the battery properly.
• A/C blowing warm: The compressor requires the belt to run; a slipping belt will cause a loss of cooling.
• Engine overheating: The belt drives the water pump on some engine configurations. Slipping can lead to reduced coolant flow.
• Visual wear: Look for missing chunks in the ribs, severe fraying on the edges, or a tensioner gauge indicator that is outside the normal operating range.

If you don't feel comfortable tackling this job yourself, or if you suspect your tensioner assembly is failing and requires deeper engine work, don't risk a breakdown. Find a trusted shop on Repairius.