2017 Nissan Frontier Serpentine Belt: Routing, Replacement, and Part Numbers

The serpentine belt on your 2017 Nissan Frontier is a critical component, driving essential accessories like your alternator, power steering pump, and air conditioning compressor. Understanding its routing, knowing when to replace it, and having the correct part numbers on hand can save you a lot of hassle and potential breakdowns.

Quick Answer

• Belt Length: Varies by engine (see below)
• Rib Count: 6-rib
• OEM Belt PN (4.0L V6): 11720-EA200
• OEM Belt PN (2.5L I4): 11720-ET800
• Aftermarket Cross-References (4.0L V6):
  • Gates K060860
  • Dayco 5060860
  • Continental Elite 4060860
• Aftermarket Cross-References (2.5L I4):
  • Gates K060805
  • Dayco 5060805
  • Continental Elite 4060805
• Auto-Tensioner PN (4.0L V6): 11750-EA20A
• Auto-Tensioner PN (2.5L I4): 11750-ET800
• Idler Pulley PN (4.0L V6): 11925-AM600 (note: some 4.0L models may have multiple idlers; verify)
• Idler Pulley PN (2.5L I4): 11925-JG70A

Belt Routing

The 2017 Nissan Frontier, depending on the engine, will have a specific serpentine belt routing path. Before you even think about removing the old belt, always take a clear photo of the current belt routing! This will be your best friend when installing the new one.

4.0L V6 Engine Routing (example path - may vary slightly by specific vehicle configurations):

Starting from the crankshaft pulley (usually the largest pulley at the bottom):

1. The belt will typically go up and over the A/C compressor pulley.
2. From the A/C compressor, it will often route down to an idler pulley (or sometimes directly to the alternator).
3. From the idler pulley, it will go up to the alternator pulley.
4. The belt then typically routes across from the alternator to the power steering pump pulley.
5. From the power steering pump, it will go to the water pump pulley.
6. Finally, the belt will route around the automatic tensioner pulley before returning to the crankshaft pulley, completing the loop.

2.5L I4 Engine Routing (example path - may vary slightly by specific vehicle configurations):

Starting from the crankshaft pulley:

1. The belt will often go up to the power steering pump pulley.
2. From the power steering pump, it may route down to an idler pulley.
3. From the idler, it will typically go up and over the alternator pulley.
4. From the alternator, it routes down to the A/C compressor pulley.
5. The belt then usually goes to the water pump pulley.
6. Finally, it loops around the automatic tensioner pulley before returning to the crankshaft.

Remember, these are general descriptions. Your best reference is always the diagram under your hood or the photo you took!

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt on your Frontier is a manageable DIY task for most mechanically inclined individuals. Here's a general overview:

1. Safety First: Ensure your engine is cool and the vehicle is securely parked with the engine off. Disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent accidental starts.
2. Document: As mentioned, take a clear picture of the current belt routing!
3. Locate the Tensioner: Identify the automatic belt tensioner. It will have a square opening (usually 3/8" or 1/2") designed for a breaker bar or a specific serpentine belt tool.
4. Relieve Tension: Insert the square drive of your breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into the tensioner. Gently rotate the tensioner to relieve tension on the belt. This will allow you to slip the belt off the pulleys.
5. Remove Old Belt: Once tension is relieved, carefully remove the old belt from all pulleys.
6. Inspect Pulleys: While the belt is off, inspect all pulleys for signs of wear, wobbling, or excessive play. Worn idler pulleys or a failing tensioner are common causes of belt problems.
7. Install New Belt: Route the new belt according to your diagram/photo, leaving the automatic tensioner pulley for last. Once the belt is correctly routed on all other pulleys, use your tool to relieve tension on the tensioner again and slip the belt over the tensioner pulley.
8. Verify Routing and Tension: Double-check that the belt is seated correctly in all grooves on all pulleys. Release the tensioner slowly. The belt should be snug and not loose.
9. Reconnect Battery & Test: Reconnect the negative battery terminal. Start the engine and listen for any abnormal noises (squealing, chirping). Observe the belt to ensure it's tracking correctly.

Replacement Interval

Nissan typically recommends inspecting your serpentine belt at every oil change and replacing it every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, or sooner if signs of wear are present. However, driving conditions and climate can affect its lifespan. It's wise to perform a visual inspection at least once a year.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Don't wait for your belt to snap. Be aware of these warning signs:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign of a worn, loose, or misaligned belt. It can also indicate a failing pulley bearing.
• Cracks, Fraying, or Glazing: Visually inspect the belt. Deep cracks, frayed edges, or a shiny, glazed appearance on the ribbed side indicate it's time for a replacement.
• Loss of Power Steering: If your power steering suddenly becomes difficult, the belt may have broken or is slipping.
• Overheating Engine: A broken belt means the water pump isn't turning, leading to engine overheating.
• Battery Not Charging: If the alternator isn't spinning, your battery won't charge, and your "BATTERY" or "CHARGE" light will illuminate on the dash.
• A/C Not Working: If the A/C compressor isn't engaged by the belt, your air conditioning will stop blowing cold.
• Wobbling or Noisy Tensioner/Pulleys: If you notice excessive wobble, grinding, or squeaking from the tensioner or any idler pulleys, they likely need to be replaced along with the belt.

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