How to Replace Serpentine Belt Tensioner 03-11 Honda Element

Difficulty: Advanced · About 110 min · Honda Element

Replace the serpentine belt tensioner, including removing the engine mount for access, on a 2003-2011 Honda Element.

Steps

1. Remove the serpentine belt

   Remove the splash shield's push clips to move it aside, support the engine with a floor jack and a block of wood, remove the 17mm engine mount bolt and its two 17mm nuts, remove the 10mm bolt holding the ground wire, remove the mount, rotate the tensioner clockwise to release the belt, slip it off a nearby pulley, release the tensioner, then work the belt off the lower pulleys through the bottom.

2. Remove the old tensioner

   Remove the power steering pump's two 12mm bolts and move it aside, then remove the tensioner's three 12mm bolts and take it out.

3. Install the new tensioner

   Set it in position, install the longest center 12mm bolt first then the other two, torque them to about 16 ft-lb, set the power steering pump back in place, then install and torque its two 12mm bolts to about 16 ft-lb.

4. Install the serpentine belt

   Compare the new and old belts to confirm the length, lower the belt down and wrap it around the crank pulley and A/C compressor from below, weave it around the water pump, alternator and power steering pulleys, turn the tensioner counterclockwise to slip the belt over its pulley, release it, check the routing, then reinstall the engine mount and its 17mm bolt and nuts, the ground wire's 10mm bolt, and lower the jack before refitting the splash shield.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.