2022 Jeep Wrangler Serpentine Belt Routing & Length

Quick Answer

• Belt Length: 2470 mm (97.25 inches)
• Rib Count: 8-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: 68444226AA
• Aftermarket Cross-References: Gates K080972, Dayco 5080970, Continental 4080972
• Automatic Tensioner Part Number: 68444225AA
• Idler Pulley Part Number: 68285934AB

Belt Routing

Before you remove the old belt, it is always a good idea to take a quick photo of the belt's path for reference. The routing for the 2022 Jeep Wrangler with the 3.6L V6 engine is as follows:

1. The belt starts at the crankshaft pulley at the bottom of the engine.
2. From the crankshaft, the belt travels up and to the right to wrap around the A/C compressor pulley.
3. Next, it goes around the smooth idler pulley located just to the left of the A/C compressor.
4. The belt then moves up to the alternator pulley at the top right of the engine.
5. From the alternator, it crosses over to the power steering pump pulley at the top left.
6. It then goes down to wrap around the water pump pulley.
7. Finally, the belt routes under the automatic tensioner pulley before returning to the crankshaft pulley.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

To replace the serpentine belt, you will need a serpentine belt tool or a long-handled 3/8" breaker bar. Locate the automatic tensioner—it has a 3/8" square hole in its body.

1. Insert the square drive of your tool into the hole on the tensioner.
2. Rotate the tensioner clockwise to release the tension on the belt.
3. While holding the tensioner, carefully slip the old belt off one of the pulleys (the alternator pulley is often a good choice).
4. Slowly release the tensioner.
5. Remove the old belt completely.
6. Using your photo or the diagram above as a guide, route the new belt around all the pulleys, leaving the smooth idler pulley for last.
7. Apply tension to the tensioner again and slide the new belt over the final pulley.
8. Double-check that the belt is correctly seated in all the pulley grooves before starting the engine.

Replacement Interval

While there is no universally mandated replacement interval, it is best practice to inspect the serpentine belt at every oil change. Most technicians recommend replacing the belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or as soon as it shows signs of wear.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Be on the lookout for these signs that your belt or tensioner may be nearing the end of its life:

• Squealing or chirping noises from the engine bay, especially on startup or when the A/C is on.
• Visible cracks, fraying, or glazing on the belt itself.
• The tensioner pulley is not spinning freely or is making a grinding noise.
• The tensioner arm is bouncing or vibrating excessively while the engine is running.
• Your vehicle's battery light illuminates, or you notice dimming headlights, which can indicate the alternator is not being spun effectively.
• Overheating, as the water pump may not be circulating coolant properly.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's time to inspect the serpentine belt system.

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