How To Replace Engine Serpentine Belt 98-05 Volkswagen Beetle

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 25 min · Volkswagen Beetle

Replace the engine serpentine belt on a 1998-2005 Volkswagen Beetle.

Steps

1. Remove the engine cover

   Pull the engine oil dipstick out, pull off the plastic engine cover, then reinsert the dipstick.

2. Remove the serpentine belt

   Insert a small Allen wrench into the tensioner, lock a pair of vise grip pliers onto the wrench, turn the tensioner clockwise, slide the Allen wrench into the tensioner's retaining hole to hold it there, then pull the belt off the alternator pulley and up and out of the engine bay.

3. Install the new belt

   Following the routing diagram, loop the belt around the crank and power steering pulleys, bring it between the tensioner and alternator pulleys and then between the alternator and A/C pulleys, push it around the A/C pulley, and double-check the routing before locking the vise grips back onto the Allen wrench, pulling the wrench out, and slowly releasing the tensioner.

4. Reinstall the engine cover

   Pull the dipstick out, push the cover back down into its rubber cushions, then reinsert the dipstick.

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