2016 Jeep Wrangler Serpentine Belt Guide

Quick answer

• Engine: 3.6L V6
• Belt Length: 2225mm (87.6")
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: 5184334AC
• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References: Gates K060876, Dayco 5060875, Continental Elite 4060875
• Automatic Belt Tensioner Part Number: 4862695AC
• Idler Pulley Part Number: 4862694AC

Belt routing

Before you remove the old belt, we strongly recommend taking a clear photograph of the belt's path for reference. The routing for the 2016 Jeep Wrangler with the 3.6L V6 engine is as follows:

1. Starts at the crankshaft pulley at the bottom center.
2. Wraps up and around the A/C compressor on the lower passenger side.
3. Goes down and under the smooth idler pulley located just below the A/C compressor.
4. Travels up to the alternator at the top of the passenger side.
5. Crosses over to the driver's side to the power steering pump.
6. Goes down to the water pump.
7. Finally, returns to the automatic tensioner before going back to the crankshaft pulley.

How to replace the serpentine belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on a 3.6L Pentastar V6 is a straightforward task. You will need a serpentine belt tool or a long-handled 3/8" drive breaker bar.

1. Locate the tensioner: The automatic belt tensioner is located between the water pump and the crankshaft pulley. It has a 3/8" square hole in its body.
2. Release tension: Insert the 3/8" drive end of your breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into the square hole on the tensioner. Rotate the tensioner clockwise (towards the passenger side) to release the tension on the belt.
3. Remove the old belt: While holding the tensioner, carefully slip the old belt off one of the smooth pulleys, like the water pump or idler pulley. Once it's off one pulley, you can release the tensioner and remove the belt completely.
4. Install the new belt: Following your photograph or the routing diagram described above, begin to route the new belt around all the pulleys, saving a smooth, easily accessible pulley for last (like the idler or water pump).
5. Finalize installation: Once the belt is routed correctly, apply clockwise pressure to the tensioner again and slip the belt over the final pulley. Ensure the belt is properly seated in the grooves of all ribbed pulleys. A quick visual inspection is crucial to prevent the belt from shredding.

Replacement interval

Jeep recommends inspecting the serpentine belt at regular service intervals. While there is no strict replacement mileage, most technicians recommend replacing the serpentine belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or as needed based on its condition. Given the off-road nature of many Wranglers, more frequent inspections for damage from debris are a good idea.

Signs of a failing belt or tensioner

A failing serpentine belt or tensioner can leave you stranded. Watch for these warning signs:

• Squealing or chirping sounds: This is the most common sign of a worn, glazed, or misaligned belt.
• Visible wear: Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (shiny spots), or missing ribs on the belt.
• "Belt jump": If the tensioner is weak, the belt may appear to wobble or jump, especially at idle.
• Grinding or rattling from the tensioner: The bearing inside the tensioner pulley can fail, causing a grinding or rattling noise.
• Loss of accessories: Since the belt drives the alternator, power steering, and A/C, a complete failure will result in a loss of power steering assist, a dead battery, and no air conditioning.

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