Q: What are the steps and considerations for inspecting and replacing a serpentine drivebelt on Nissan Altima?
A: These models have a serpentine drivebelt with a tensioner that can self adjusting. Drivebelts are very important for the operation of the engine, since their tension and state depends of the type of the belt on the one hand and the high stresses that they are experiencing on the other hand, thus, they have to be inspected periodically. The serpentine drive belt transfers power to all the accessories in the car. Switch off the engine then, detach the front cover then locate the drivebelt. With the help of a strong light source, it is possible to examine such issues as the separation of the adhesive rubber, core separation, severed core, crack or separation of ribs and worn or torn ribs. Twist the belt and feel its back to check for any problems such as heir and fray on both surface of the belt. If some issues are detected, the belt should be changed. Also measure the amount of stretch by looking at the drivebelt indicator; when the indicator notch gets to the solid line of the dial, the belt has traveled too far and needs to be replaced. To replace the drivebelt, start by disconnecting the cable on the negative terminal of the battery, then unlock the right front wheel lug nuts, then safely raise the car with jackstands, and finally, remove the right splash guard inner fender and engine cover if available. If the belt tensioner is of the serpentine type then turn the belt tensioner clockwise to gain access to the drivebelt and while doing so the tension in the belt will be released but the tensioner pulley bolt need not be loosened in any way. Drivebelt from the tensioner and other accessory, put the newly purchased drivebelt and make sure to route it properly. Connect the battery terminals and do other Types of learning procedures if required. For all of the tensioners except the 2011 and newer four-cylinder models, first, take off the drivebelt, then the fasteners that hold the tensioner. Removal is the opposite of installation; the tensioner mounting fasteners are tightened to the recommended torque. On 2011 and later four-cylinder models, the tensioner and water pump pulley are integrated, so the two pieces must be replaced together not only that, four-cylinder models require removal of the drive belt, power steering reservoir, supporting the engine, and removing the right engine mount and tensioner/pulley assembly, then reverse the process.