Accessory Drive Belt Guide for the 2000-2003 Chrysler Voyager
Stop the squeal and keep your Voyager running by choosing the right accessory drive belt.
- A broken belt will immediately disable your Voyager, causing it to overheat and lose power steering; do not drive with a failing belt.
- Be aware of the known issue where the belt can slip off in wet conditions; consider a Gates kit with flanged pulleys for a permanent fix.
- Always inspect the belt tensioner and idler pulleys when replacing the belt; replacing them at the same time is a smart preventative measure.
- High-quality aftermarket brands like Gates, Continental, and Dayco offer excellent reliability and value for this vehicle.
Is Your Accessory Belt Failing?
An accessory drive belt is a wear item, typically lasting 60,000 to 100,000 miles. On an older vehicle like the 2000-2003 Voyager, it's more important to inspect the belt for condition rather than relying on mileage alone. Ignoring the warning signs can leave you stranded with an overheated engine. Look for these common symptoms:
- Squealing or Chirping Noises: This is the most common sign of a problem. A high-pitched squeal, especially on cold starts or in wet weather, means the belt is slipping. This could be due to a worn belt, a weak tensioner, or fluid contamination.
- Visible Damage: Look at the belt with the engine off. If you see multiple cracks, frayed edges, missing chunks of rubber, or a smooth, shiny surface, it's time for a replacement.
- System Failures: If your power steering feels heavy, the battery light comes on, or the engine temperature gauge starts to rise, the belt may be failing to power those components. A complete loss of these systems indicates the belt has likely broken.
Known Issue: Belt Slips Off in Rain or Snow
Early models of this minivan platform, including the 2000 Voyager, have a known issue where the serpentine belt can slip off the pulleys when driving through deep water, snow, or heavy rain. Chrysler issued Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for this problem, which was caused by original pulleys that lacked a raised edge, or flange, to hold the belt in place when wet. While Chrysler's fix involved shields, the most effective, permanent solution is to install an aftermarket kit with flanged pulleys, a solution for which the brand Gates is well-known.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Belt
For a vehicle of this age, a high-quality aftermarket belt offers excellent performance and value. There is little evidence that a more expensive OEM Mopar belt provides a significant advantage over top-tier aftermarket brands. When shopping, consider these brand tiers based on community feedback and reputation:
- Premium Brands (Recommended): These brands are known for their durability and are often trusted as original equipment suppliers. They are the best choice for reliability.
- Gates: Widely regarded as a top choice. They are particularly known for making kits with improved, flanged pulleys that solve the wet-weather belt slippage issue on these vans.
- Continental: Another premium brand with a strong reputation for quiet operation and long life.
- Dayco: A trusted brand that offers quality belts and is often recommended by mechanics.
- Reliable Alternatives: These brands offer a good balance of quality and price, making them a solid choice for most owners.
- Bando: A major OEM supplier for many Japanese vehicles, known for excellent quality.
- Mitsuboshi: Similar to Bando, a well-respected OEM manufacturer that produces high-quality belts.
- ACDelco: A well-known and generally reliable brand for all makes.
- Economy Brands:
- Crown Automotive: Primarily known for Jeep parts, but offers parts for other Chrysler vehicles. Quality can be variable, so check reviews for the specific part.
Pro Tip: Replace the Tensioner and Pulleys
The belt tensioner and idler pulleys wear out at a similar rate as the belt. A weak tensioner is a primary cause of belt noise and slippage. To avoid doing the job twice and ensure your new belt lasts, it is strongly recommended to inspect the tensioner and idler pulleys when you replace the belt. If they feel rough when spun by hand, make noise, or wobble, they should be replaced at the same time.
Accessory Drive Belt Replacement Costs
The cost to replace the accessory drive belt can vary based on whether you do it yourself or have a shop perform the work. Here are some estimated costs:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Belt | $7 - $56 |
| New OEM (Mopar) Belt | $60 - $85 |
| Shop Labor | $75 - $150 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Aftermarket Part) | $82 - $206 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the accessory drive belt myself?
Yes, for a moderately experienced DIYer, this is a manageable job. You will need a long-handled ratchet or a serpentine belt tool to release the tensioner. Access can be tight, so patience is key.
Why does my belt squeal only when it rains?
This is a classic symptom of the known issue on 2000-era Chrysler minivans. Water acts as a lubricant on the belt, and the original pulley design without a flange allows the belt to slip or walk off. The best solution is a replacement kit with flanged pulleys.
Do I really need to replace the tensioner with the belt?
While not strictly required, it is highly recommended, especially if the tensioner is original. A weak tensioner will cause your new belt to wear out prematurely and can be the source of persistent noise. Replacing them together saves labor in the long run.
Are there any recalls for the serpentine belt on my Voyager?
No. Searches of the NHTSA database show no safety recalls for the accessory drive belt, pulleys, or tensioner on the 2000-2003 Chrysler Voyager. The known wet-weather issue was addressed by Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), not a recall.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 4593684AA 5086140AA 4861733AA
Varies by engine (2.4L, 3.3L, 3.8L). Ensure you have the correct belt length and rib count for your specific engine configuration. The 3.3L and 3.8L V6 engines were most common.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Chrysler Voyager: