2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee: Serpentine Belt Routing & Length

Quick Answer

For your 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the serpentine belt specifications vary slightly depending on your engine. Please verify your exact engine before purchasing parts.

3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine

• Belt Length: Approximately 2470mm (97.2 inches)
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt PN: MOPAR 05085694AA
• Aftermarket Cross-references:
  • Gates K060972
  • Dayco 5060972
  • Continental Elite 4060972
• Auto-Tensioner PN: MOPAR 04627038AB (or similar, verify for your specific VIN)
• Idler Pulley PN: MOPAR 04892473AA (or similar, verify for your specific VIN)

5.7L HEMI V8 Engine

• Belt Length: Approximately 2240mm (88 inches)
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt PN: MOPAR 04891783AC
• Aftermarket Cross-references:
  • Gates K060880
  • Dayco 5060880
  • Continental Elite 4060880
• Auto-Tensioner PN: MOPAR 04891783AC (Often included with belt, verify for your specific VIN)
• Idler Pulley PN: MOPAR 04891783AD (or similar, verify for your specific VIN)

Belt Routing

IMPORTANT: Before you begin, take several clear photos of your existing serpentine belt routing from different angles. This will be an invaluable reference during reinstallation.

Here's a general step-by-step text-based description for the 3.6L Pentastar V6 and 5.7L HEMI V8. While the exact path may have minor variations, the major components will be consistent.

1. Crankshaft Pulley: The belt originates and returns to the crankshaft pulley, which is the largest pulley typically located at the bottom center of the engine. This pulley drives all the accessories.
2. A/C Compressor: From the crankshaft pulley, the belt typically travels upward and wraps around the A/C compressor pulley, usually located on the lower passenger side of the engine.
3. Idler Pulley(s): After the A/C compressor, the belt will likely route over or under one or more idler pulleys. These pulleys guide the belt and provide tension. Note their exact position from your photos.
4. Alternator: The belt then goes to the alternator pulley, usually located higher up on the engine, often on the driver's side or upper passenger side.
5. Power Steering Pump: From the alternator, the belt will route to the power steering pump pulley (if equipped with hydraulic power steering). This is commonly found near the top front of the engine.
6. Water Pump: The belt then engages the water pump pulley, which is critical for cooling and is often centrally located near the top front of the engine.
7. Auto-Tensioner: Finally, the belt will pass around the auto-tensioner pulley. This spring-loaded pulley applies constant tension to the belt, ensuring proper grip and preventing slippage. The auto-tensioner is where you'll typically apply leverage to relieve tension for belt removal and installation.

Double-check your specific engine's routing against the photos you took before and during installation.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on your 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee requires a few basic tools and a systematic approach:

1. Safety First: Ensure the engine is off and cool. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent accidental starting.
2. Locate the Tensioner: Identify the automatic belt tensioner. It will have a square drive hole (typically 3/8