2024 Toyota Highlander: Serpentine Belt Routing & Replacement

Quick Answer

• Belt Length and Rib Count: 1880mm (74.0 inches), 6-rib
• OEM Belt Part Number: 90916-02708
• Aftermarket Cross-References: Gates K060740, Dayco 5060740, Continental 4060740
• Auto-Tensioner Part Number: 16620-25011
• Idler Pulley Part Number: 16603-25010

Belt Routing

Before you remove the old belt, we strongly recommend taking a clear photograph of the belt's path for reference. For the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine in the 2024 Toyota Highlander, the serpentine belt follows this path:

1. Starts at the crankshaft pulley at the bottom of the engine.
2. Wraps around the A/C compressor.
3. Goes over the idler pulley.
4. Travels up to the alternator.
5. Comes down and around the power steering pump.
6. Goes around the water pump.
7. Finishes by wrapping around the auto-tensioner, which maintains the belt's tension.

How to Replace the Serpentine Belt

To replace the belt, you'll need a serpentine belt tool or a long-handled 3/8" breaker bar. Locate the auto-tensioner—it has a pulley and is mounted on a spring-loaded arm. You will see a 3/8" square hole on the tensioner arm. Insert the breaker bar or serpentine belt tool into this hole.

Rotate the tensioner arm to release the tension on the belt. While holding the tensioner, carefully slip the old belt off the pulleys. Once the old belt is off, slowly release the tensioner arm.

Following your reference photo and the routing path described above, thread the new belt around the pulleys. The last pulley to loop the belt over should be a smooth one, like the water pump or idler pulley, as it will be easier than trying to force it onto a grooved pulley.

Once the new belt is in place, apply tension with the breaker bar again and double-check that the belt is properly seated in the grooves of each pulley. Slowly release the tensioner, and the new belt will be tightened.

Replacement Interval

Toyota recommends inspecting the serpentine belt at 60,000 miles and then every 15,000 miles thereafter. While modern belts are durable, it is wise to consider a replacement between 60,000 and 100,000 miles, even if it shows no visible signs of wear.

Signs of a Failing Belt or Tensioner

Be on the lookout for these signs that your serpentine belt or tensioner may need replacement:

• Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign, especially noticeable when starting the engine or turning on the A/C.
• Visible Wear: Look for cracks, fraying, glazing, or missing ribs on the belt.
• Accessory Malfunctions: Since the serpentine belt powers many components, you might notice dimming headlights (alternator), difficulty steering (power steering), or engine overheating (water pump).
• Tensioner Noise: A rumbling or grinding noise from the tensioner area can indicate a failing bearing in the tensioner pulley.
• "Bouncing" Tensioner Arm: A tensioner arm that visibly jumps or vibrates while the engine is running is a sign that the spring is weak and it's time for a replacement.

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