Serpentine belt replacement Guide2021 Nissan Pathfinder
Complete DIY repair guide with step-by-step instructions. Find exact parts on Amazon for your vehicle.
Difficulty
Easy
Time
20-30 minutes
Parts Needed
1 items
DIY Savings
$100-400+
2021 Nissan Pathfinder — What You Need to Know
- →VQ40DE engine uses a 6-rib belt (vs. 4-rib on QR25DE Rogue) — Gates K060993
- →Tensioner rotates COUNTERCLOCKWISE on VQ40 — confirm direction before forcing it the wrong way
- →Some 2005-2012 Pathfinders have TWO drain plugs on the oil pan (driver and passenger side) — check both during oil changes
- →Serpentine belt drives PS pump, AC, alternator, and water pump — one belt for the whole system
Torque Specs
Tensioner bolt: 26 ft-lbs
Belt Routing
VQ40DE 6-rib belt: Crankshaft → AC compressor → idler → power steering pump → alternator → water pump → spring tensioner. Tensioner rotates counterclockwise.
Safety Warnings
- •Tensioner rotates COUNTERCLOCKWISE on the VQ40DE engine — opposite of most Nissans
Tools Required
14mm wrench
Flashlight
Parts Needed
Serpentine Belt6 rib, 993mm
Shop on AmazonOEM 11720-EA200Gates K060993 / Dayco 6PK2520
Basic Procedure Overview
- 1Locate tensioner on front of engine — 14mm bolt
- 2Rotate tensioner counterclockwise to release belt tension
- 3Remove belt from alternator pulley first, then thread off remaining pulleys
- 4Route new belt: crank → AC → idler → PS pump → alternator → water pump → tensioner
- 5Hold tensioner counterclockwise, slip belt over water pump, slowly release
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