Are OEM Toyota Serpentine Belts Better Than Aftermarket Belts?
Posted on

Are you thinking about replacing the serpentine belt on your Toyota? Maybe you're torn between choosing an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) belt or going with an aftermarket alternative. Both options have their pros and cons, but which one really gives you the best value? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key considerations when purchasing a replacement serpentine belt. We’ll also do a side-by-side comparison of OEM versus aftermarket belts so you can make an informed decision. Spoiler alert: OEM belts tend to be the superior choice. Keep reading to discover why!

What Exactly Is an OEM Serpentine Belt?

OEM belt

An OEM serpentine belt is manufactured either by the automaker itself or by one of its certified suppliers. These belts are designed to be identical to the original belt installed in your vehicle at the factory. Toyota offers a wide range of serpentine belts, each tailored specifically to particular models or groups of models. For instance, the belt labeled for certain 2013-2019 models includes:

  • Avalon
  • Camry
  • Highlander
  • Sienna

What About Aftermarket Serpentine Belts?

On the other hand, third-party companies produce aftermarket serpentine belts. Since these belts are not directly overseen by Toyota, there’s no guarantee that they’ll meet the same standards as OEM belts. The design and specifications of aftermarket belts can vary significantly from those of their OEM counterparts.

Now let’s discuss three crucial aspects to keep in mind when selecting a serpentine belt.

1. The Quality of the Materials

Belt material

Although serpentine belts might seem like straightforward components, they endure immense stress while operating. As long as your engine is running, the belt remains in constant motion, generating significant heat. Such demanding conditions can degrade inferior materials easily. For example, a poorly constructed serpentine belt could:

  • Shrink
  • Develop cracks
  • Fray
  • Break

This highlights the importance of using a belt crafted from high-quality materials. When you opt for an OEM serpentine belt, you can rest assured that Toyota uses reinforced rubber that resists shrinking, fraying, and breaking under pressure. Unfortunately, aftermarket belts often skimp on material quality, leading to premature failure due to subpar construction.

2. The Dimensions

Belt fit

The serpentine belt plays a critical role in ensuring smooth engine operation. Without a properly functioning belt, numerous engine components would cease working altogether. Therefore, you should prioritize getting a belt that matches the precise OE specifications—right down to the length and width. A correctly sized belt ensures optimal performance.

  • Using a belt that’s too tight can lead to rapid wear and tear.
  • A belt that’s too loose risks slipping, causing pulleys to spin at incorrect speeds.
  • An overly thin belt might snap under strain.
  • A belt that’s too thick may come off track entirely.

OEM serpentine belts consistently adhere to accurate dimensions. By contrast, aftermarket manufacturers often create belts based on their proprietary designs rather than adhering strictly to OE standards. While some aftermarket brands do match OE measurements, this isn’t always the case. To avoid potential issues, sticking with OEM options tends to be the safer bet.

3. Warranty Coverage

Warranty

Even though belts are relatively inexpensive, having warranty protection adds peace of mind. A warranty demonstrates confidence in the product’s durability and reliability. Unfortunately, many—if not most—aftermarket serpentine belts lack any form of warranty backing. However, Toyota provides a robust warranty for its OEM serpentine belts. Specifically, the warranty covers the belt for 12 months or unlimited mileage. Should your OEM belt fail prematurely, you can get it replaced free of charge.

The Final Verdict

When comparing OEM versus aftermarket serpentine belts, OEMs clearly excel in several areas:

  • Better overall performance
  • Long-term cost savings
  • Increased longevity

We offer competitive Wholesale prices for all OEM Toyota parts, including serpentine belts. Simply look up your Toyota model to find the appropriate part number! If you’re unsure how to locate the correct part number for your specific vehicle, feel free to reach out—we’re here to assist.

Written by Jason Lancaster

PE Blowing Film Screw Barrel

PE Blown Film Screw Barrel,PP Film Machine Screw Barrel,single screw barrel for PE blowing film lines,Screw Barrel for Film Blowing Machine, we offered that you can trust.

Zhoushan Batten Machinery Technology Co.,Ltd is professional China screw barrel for plastic injection mold machine Manufacturers and screw barrels for injection molding machine Suppliers, is a member of Batten Group, specializes in exporting kinds accessory parts of plastics machinery, and annual sales is more than 5 Million US dollar. Professional experience on processing and designing, we can supply nitrided, chrome plating, stainless steel, bimetallic and surface spraying technology treatment for different demands . Especially, high quality Screw Barrel For Plastic Injection Mold Machine & pipe win more customer. BATTEN devote on high quality screw barrel and professional rapid service to bring more benefit to customers!

PE Blown Film Screw Barrel,PP Film Machine Screw Barrel,single screw barrel for PE blowing film lines,Screw Barrel for Film Blowing Machine

ZHOUSHAN BATTEN IMPORT AND EXPORT CO.,LTD. , https://www.battenscrew.com