belts and hoses

Importance of checking belt and hoses on a used car:

     Belts and hoses are essential components that provide various important aspects to car's operation. Belts and hoses breakage will result in being stranded.

What to look for when checking belts and hoses?

     Drive belts under the hood shouldn't be excessively worn or glazed. They shouldn't have any cracks to them on either side. Belt slippage sometimes produces loud and obnoxious whistle. Belt slippage might also indicate worn belt tensioner, which isn't very expensive to replace, but it's going to cost some money. Buying the car with worn belt is acceptable, as long as you replace the belt soon or risk getting stranded.

     Hoses should be visually inspected for cracks or loose connections. Be careful, because coolant flows through hoses, and it's pressurized and hot. Generally is hoses aren't cracked or losely connected, they should be replaced according to vehicle's manufacturer's specified interval. If the car is older or has more mileage than the time/mileage specified in owner's manual, and hoses look rather old, chances are they haven't been replaced at specified time interval. Replace them at a shop as soon as possible to avoid being stranded one day.

Conclusion:

     Inspect belt/hoses for visual wear, cracks, loose connections and excessive dryness.