2020 Jeep Cherokee Serpentine Belt Guide

Quick Answer

• Belt Length and Rib Count (2.4L MultiAir): 1995mm (78.5 inches), 6-rib

• OEM Belt Part Number (2.4L): Mopar 5047991AA

• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References (2.4L):

  • Gates K060785
  • Dayco 5060785
  • Continental Elite 4060785

• Auto-Tensioner Part Number (2.4L): Mopar 04893700AB

• Idler Pulley Part Number (2.4L): Mopar 04892850AA

• Belt Length and Rib Count (3.2L Pentastar V6): 2165mm (85.25 inches), 6-rib

• OEM Belt Part Number (3.2L): Mopar 68089429AB

• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References (3.2L):

  • Gates K060852
  • Dayco 5060852
  • Continental Elite 4060852

• Auto-Tensioner Part Number (3.2L): Mopar 04893427AB

• Idler Pulley Part Number (3.2L): Mopar 04862908AB

Belt Routing

Before you remove the old serpentine belt, it is crucial to understand how it is routed through the various engine pulleys. A simple photo taken with your smartphone can save you a tremendous amount of time and frustration. The routing can be complex, and a visual reference is invaluable.

For the 2020 Jeep Cherokee with the 3.2L Pentastar V6, the belt follows this path:

1. Starts at the crankshaft pulley at the bottom.
2. Wraps up and around the A/C compressor.
3. Goes down and under the idler pulley.
4. Travels up to the alternator.
5. Comes down around the power steering pump.
6. Goes up over the water pump.
7. Finally, loops under the automatic tensioner, which applies pressure to keep the belt taut.

For the 2.4L MultiAir engine, the routing is similar but involves fewer accessories. Always confirm the path by taking a photo of your specific vehicle before proceeding.

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 breaker bar with various socket and crowfoot attachments. In many cases, a standard 3/8" or 1/2" drive breaker bar will fit directly into the square hole on the automatic tensioner.

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is cool. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Locate the Tensioner: Find the automatic tensioner pulley. It's the spring-loaded pulley that keeps the belt tight.
3. Release Tension: Fit your serpentine belt tool or breaker bar into the designated hole on the tensioner body. Rotate the tensioner against its spring pressure. This will loosen the belt enough for you to slip it off one of the pulleys (the highest, smoothest pulley, like the water pump, is often the easiest).
4. Remove Old Belt: Carefully unthread the old belt from the pulley system.
5. Install New Belt: Following the routing diagram or the photo you took earlier, thread the new belt around all the pulleys, saving the tensioner for last. Double-check that the belt's ribs are correctly seated in the grooves of each pulley.
6. Apply Tension: While holding the tensioner in the released position, slip the belt over the final pulley. Slowly and carefully release the tensioner, ensuring the belt stays properly seated. The tensioner will automatically apply the correct amount of tension.
7. Final Check: Inspect the entire belt path one last time to confirm it is correctly routed and seated in every pulley groove. Reconnect the battery, start the engine, and let it run for a minute to ensure everything is operating smoothly.

Replacement Interval

While there is no universally mandated replacement interval, a general rule of thumb is to inspect the serpentine belt at every oil change and plan for replacement between 60,000 and 90,000 miles. Driving in harsh conditions (extreme heat, dust) may warrant earlier replacement. The belt is made of a durable EPDM rubber compound, but it will eventually wear out.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Your vehicle will often give you warning signs before a belt fails completely. Ignoring these can lead to a breakdown, as the belt powers critical components like the alternator, water pump, and power steering.

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common symptom, often indicating a worn, stretched, or misaligned belt.
• Visible Wear: Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (a shiny, smooth appearance on the belt's surface), or missing ribs.
• Tensioner Issues: The automatic tensioner can also fail. If the tensioner arm is vibrating erratically while the engine is running, or if you notice the belt flapping, the tensioner's internal spring may be weak.
• Accessory Problems: Dimming headlights (alternator), difficulty steering (power steering), or engine overheating (water pump) can all be symptoms of a failing serpentine belt.

If you're not comfortable performing this service yourself, we can help.

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