2020 Nissan Frontier — Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
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Quick Answer
For the 2020 Nissan Frontier equipped with the 3.8L V6 engine, here are the key specifications for the serpentine belt and its related components:
- Belt Length: Approximately 93.0 inches
- Rib Count: 7-rib
- OEM Belt Part Number: Nissan 11720-5-EA0A
- Aftermarket Cross-References: Gates K070920, Dayco 5070920, Continental Elite 4070920
- Auto-Tensioner Part Number: Gates 38332, Dayco 89369
- Idler Pulley Part Number: Gates 36172, Dayco 89139
Belt Routing
Before you begin, we strongly recommend taking a clear photograph of the current serpentine belt routing. This will serve as a handy reference and prevent any confusion during installation.
The serpentine belt on the 2020 Nissan Frontier follows a specific path to power all the engine-driven accessories. Starting from the crankshaft pulley at the bottom center of the engine, the belt path is as follows:
- From the crankshaft pulley, the belt travels up and to the left to the A/C compressor.
- From the A/C compressor, the belt goes down and around the idler pulley.
- Next, the belt routes up to the alternator.
- From the alternator, it moves across to the power steering pump.
- The belt then goes down to the water pump.
- Finally, the belt wraps around the auto-tensioner 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 3/8" drive breaker bar. Locate the auto-tensioner, which has a 3/8" square hole for the tool. Rotate the tensioner to release the tension on the belt, and then slip the belt off the pulleys. When installing the new belt, use your photograph and the routing description above to ensure it is correctly placed on all pulleys. Once the new belt is in place, slowly release the tensioner to apply the proper tension.
Replacement Interval
As a general rule, we recommend inspecting the serpentine belt at every oil change and replacing it every 60,000 to 90,000 miles, or as recommended in your owner's manual. However, this interval can be shorter in severe climates.
Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner
A failing serpentine belt or tensioner will often provide audible or visible warning signs. Look out for:
- Squealing or chirping noises from the engine bay, especially on startup or when the A/C is running.
- Visible cracks, fraying, or glazing on the surface of the belt.
- A tensioner pulley that does not spin freely or makes a grinding noise when spun by hand.
- Dimming headlights or a flickering battery light on the dash, which could indicate the belt is slipping on the alternator pulley.
If you notice any of these signs, it's best to address them promptly to avoid a breakdown. A broken serpentine belt will cause an immediate loss of power to all accessories, including the alternator, power steering, and water pump, which can lead to the engine overheating.
If you're not comfortable performing this service yourself, Find a trusted shop on Repairius.
More specs for the 2020 Nissan Frontier
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2020 Nissan Frontier Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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