2016 Toyota Highlander Serpentine Belt Guide

Quick Answer

• Belt Length and Rib Count: 97.44 inches (2475 mm), 7-rib design
• OEM Belt Part Number: Toyota 90916-A2022
• Aftermarket Belt Cross-References: Gates K070968, Dayco 5070968, Continental 4070968
• Automatic Tensioner Part Number: Toyota 16620-0P050
• Idler Pulley Part Number: Toyota 16604-0P020

Belt Routing

Before removing the old belt, we always recommend taking a clear photograph of the belt's path for reference. The serpentine belt on the 2016 Toyota Highlander with the 3.5L V6 engine follows this path:

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 under the smooth idler pulley located just above the A/C compressor.
4. Travels up to the alternator at the top passenger side.
5. Crosses over to the power steering pump at the top driver's side.
6. Goes down and around the water pump, which is located centrally, below the power steering pump.
7. Finally, the belt comes up and over the automatic tensioner before returning to the crankshaft pulley.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

Replacing the serpentine belt is a manageable task for a DIYer with the right tools. You'll need a serpentine belt tool, which is a long, thin bar with various socket attachments, or a long-handled 3/8" drive breaker bar.

1. Locate the Tensioner: The automatic tensioner is located between the water pump and the crankshaft pulley. It has a square 3/8" drive hole designed for your tool.
2. Release Tension: Insert the breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into the square hole on the tensioner arm. Rotate the tensioner clockwise to release the tension on the belt. The arm will move, creating slack in the belt.
3. Remove Old Belt: While holding the tensioner in the released position, carefully slide the old belt off one of the accessible smooth pulleys, like the idler or water pump.
4. Verify New Belt: Match your new belt against the old one to ensure the length is correct.
5. Route New Belt: Following your photograph or the path described above, carefully route the new belt around all the pulleys, saving one of the easily accessible smooth pulleys for last.
6. Final Installation: With the belt routed, release the tension on the tensioner arm again and slip the belt over the final pulley. Ensure the belt is properly seated in the ribbed grooves of every pulley.

Replacement Interval

Toyota does not specify a strict mileage or time-based replacement interval for the serpentine belt on the 2016 Highlander. Instead, they recommend regular inspection. As a general rule of thumb, it's wise to inspect the belt during every oil change and consider replacement between 60,000 and 90,000 miles.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Be alert for these warning signs:

• Squealing Noises: A high-pitched squeal, especially on startup or when the A/C is turned on, is a classic sign of a worn or slipping belt.
• Visible Wear: Look for cracks, fraying, glazing (shiny spots), or missing ribs on the belt.
• Tensioner Noise: A rattling or grinding noise coming from the tensioner pulley indicates a failing bearing.
• System Malfunctions: If your power steering feels heavy, the battery light comes on, or the engine begins to overheat, the belt may have failed, stopping these critical components from running.

If you're not comfortable tackling this job yourself, you can find a trusted shop on Repairius.