Audi A3: How to Replace Serpentine Belt

The serpentine belt is in charge of turning all your pulleys in the Audi A3. Read on to learn how to replace it.

By Bassem Girgis - March 23, 2016

This article applies to the Audi A3 (1996-2008).

The serpentine belt connects all your Audi A3's pulleys together, so when the engine turns, the belt turns. Overtime, the belt starts cracking and wearing, which will start causing a screeching sound when the engine starts. As it gets worse, it will get louder and more obnoxious. Replacing the belt is considered to be a piece of maintenance. If you aren't sure if you need to replace the belt or not, you can visually inspect it for any cracks or wear. Also, pull on the belt and if it's not tight and snug, then it's time to replace it. This article will show you how to replace your serpentine belt on the Audi A3 yourself.

Audi A3: How to Replace Serpentine Belt

Materials Needed

  • 16mm wrench
  • Flat head screwdriver
  • New serpentine belt

Step 1 – Remove engine cover

To remove the engine cover, you have to remove the intake tube with it. Use your flat head screwdriver to remove the one screw holding the intake tube to the box at the front of the car. Then pull the engine cover up; it's held in place by a few clips.

AUDI A3 2.0T SERPENTINE BELT DRIVE ACCESSORY REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
Figure 1. Remove engine cover.

Step 2 – Remove serpentine belt

Use your wrench to move the tensioner pulley to loosen the tension off of the belt. You will have to hold the tensioner down, remove the belt, then let go of the tensioner.

AUDI A3 2.0T SERPENTINE BELT DRIVE ACCESSORY REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
Figure 2. The red arrow is the tensioner.

Step 3 – Install new belt

Use the same method to install the new belt. Pull the tensioner down with your wrench, then install the belt and route it the same way, then let go of the tensioner. The belt should be tight and snug in place. Install the engine cover, and tighten the intake tube's screw. Check the serpentine belt diagram on the sticker under your hood.

AUDI A3 2.0T SERPENTINE BELT DRIVE ACCESSORY REPLACE REMOVE HOW TO
Figure 3. Serpentine belt diagram.

Featured Video: Audi A3 2.0t FSI Serpentine Belt Removal

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