2018 Jeep Cherokee: Serpentine Belt Replacement Guide

""""" As an ASE-certified master technician, I've seen firsthand how a neglected serpentine belt can leave you stranded. This single belt powers all your engine's accessories—alternator, A/C compressor, power steering pump, and water pump. When it fails, everything stops working.

This guide covers the serpentine belt system for the 2018 Jeep Cherokee, including both the 2.4L I4 and 3.2L V6 engine options.

Important Note on Part Numbers: The part numbers listed below are common examples. Always verify the exact part numbers for your specific vehicle using your VIN with a trusted parts supplier before ordering.

Quick Answer: 2.4L I4 MultiAir Engine

• Serpentine Belt Length: Approximately 1980mm
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: Mopar 5048858AA
• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References: Gates K060775, Dayco 5060775, Continental 4060775
• Auto-Tensioner Assembly Part Number: Mopar 4891722AC
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Mopar 04891737AB

Quick Answer: 3.2L V6 Pentastar Engine

• Serpentine Belt Length: Approximately 1435mm
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: Mopar 5281577AA
• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References: Gates K060560, Dayco 5060560, Continental 4060560
• Auto-Tensioner Assembly Part Number: Mopar 04893444AC
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Mopar 04862908AC (smooth); Mopar 04862907AD (ribbed), if equipped.

Belt Routing

Before you remove the old belt, take a clear photo of the routing from a couple of angles. This is the single most important step to prevent confusion. If you get stuck, your photo will be an invaluable guide.

2.4L I4 Belt Routing

The 2.4L engine has a relatively straightforward layout. The belt path is as follows:

1. Starts wrapped around the bottom crankshaft pulley.
2. Travels up to the A/C compressor (front, passenger side).
3. Goes down and around the idler pulley.
4. Moves up to the alternator (top, passenger side).
5. Crosses over the engine to the power steering pump (top, driver side).
6. Goes down to the water pump.
7. Finishes by looping under the auto-tensioner before returning to the crank pulley.

3.2L V6 Belt Routing

The V6 routing is more compact. The path is as follows:

1. Starts wrapped around the crankshaft pulley.
2. Moves up to the A/C compressor.
3. Loops down and around the idler pulley.
4. Goes up and around the alternator.
5. Crosses to the driver's side to wrap under the power steering pump pulley.
6. Moves up and over the water pump.
7. Finally, routes to the auto-tensioner, which applies pressure to the belt span between the water pump and the crank pulley.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the belt is manageable for a DIYer with the right tool. You will need a serpentine belt tool, which is a long, thin ratchet with various sockets, or a long-handled 3/8" or 1/2" breaker bar.

1. Locate the Tensioner: The automatic belt tensioner has a square hole (usually 3/8" or 1/2") or a hex-shaped lug cast into its body or pulley arm.
2. Release Tension: Fit your breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into this spot. Pivot the tool to move the tensioner pulley away from the belt, releasing the tension. The movement is spring-loaded and requires some force to hold.
3. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tension, slip the old belt off one of the smooth pulleys, like the idler or water pump.
4. Install New Belt: Following your photo or the diagram, route the new belt around all the pulleys, saving a smooth, easily accessible pulley for last.
5. Finalize Installation: Release the tensioner again and slip the belt over the final pulley. Double-check that the belt is correctly seated in the ribbed grooves of every pulley. A misaligned belt will shred itself almost immediately.

Replacement Interval

While there is no universally mandated interval, as an experienced technician, I recommend a thorough inspection of the serpentine belt starting around 60,000 miles and considering replacement between 75,000 and 90,000 miles. Environmental factors like extreme heat or cold can shorten the belt's life.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Your belt and tensioner will usually give you warning signs before a complete failure. Listen and look for:

• Squealing or Chirping: This is the classic sign of a slipping or worn belt, especially on startup or when the A/C is on.
• Visible Wear: Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (shiny spots), or missing ribs on the belt.
• Tensioner Noise: A grinding or rattling noise from the tensioner area points to a failing bearing in the tensioner pulley.
• Tensioner Movement: If you see the tensioner arm vibrating or jumping erratically while the engine is running, the internal spring is weak and it's time for a replacement.

Keeping the serpentine belt and its components in good shape is a critical part of engine maintenance. If you're not comfortable with the job, don't hesitate to get help.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius. """""", meta_title=