Land Rovers are designed particularly for those who love adventure and off-road driving. Every component is designed to withstand rough terrain yet provide a smooth ride for your commute. To get the best out of your Land Rover, it is advisable you take your vehicle for regular maintenance. Routine maintenance helps detect worn-out parts before they fail. One of the parts your mechanic will check is the idler pulley.
What is Idler Pulley?
The idler pulley in a Land Rover drives the belt system of the vehicle. Its function is to guide the engine belt that connects to the crankshaft, which produces movement in the alternator, steering pump, and air-conditioner compressor.
The Idler pulley will typically last for a very long time before it fails. It is advisable that you don’t wait until it breaks before it is changed out. When your Land Rover turns 100,000 miles, your routine maintenance service will include changing it out.
Symptoms of Idler Pulley Failure
One good thing about your vehicle is that before any part breaks entirely, it will likely show signs of imminent failure. It is really important to pay attention to warning signs from your vehicle. Some of the symptoms that tell you that the idler pulley of your Land Rover may be failing include:
- Squealing of Engine Belt: When the surface of the idler pulley rubs against the engine belt, it produces a squeal. This is usually caused by wearing out of the pulley which causes the pulley to bind or slip. If the situation is not arrested on time, it would lead to total failure of the idler pulley.
- Visible wear: It is important to carry out a visual check of your vehicle’s internal components. If you notice visible wear on the idler pulley, it is an indication that it will fail soon. As the idler pulley rotates against the engine belt, the heat produced from this action causes it to wear out. This wear can be identified by visible marks on the pulley. Further, wear of both the pulley and idler would reduce tension and finally lead to belt slippage.
- Damaged bearing or pulley: If you notice a damaged pulley or bearing, that is an indication of an imminent pulley failure. Once you notice that the bearing or pulley is worn out until it breaks or cracks and comes apart, you need to visit a professional to replace it, because a broken or seized pulley will cause the belt to slip or tear. Driving your Land Rover without a torn belt can cause overheating and stalling of your vehicle. As mentioned earlier, the belt causes movements of the engine accessories, so it is necessary for a functional engine.
- Stuck or Hard Pulley: The condition of the idler pulley of your Land Rover may be stuck as a result of a ball bearing that froze or seized.
- Wobbling or Moving Belt: If the engine belt moves unsteadily (side to side), it could be an indication of a failed idler pulley that isn’t holding it in place.
Negative Effects of an Idler Pulley Failure
A damaged or failed idler belt should be taken seriously, because as the idler pulley operates different belts, your vehicle Land Rover will also run differently depending on the belt involved. You may not have a serious problem if the air conditioner belt comes is affected, but if it is the alternator or cooling system, it can lead to a serious issue and even an accident.
Once you discover these symptoms in your Land Rover and suspect a problem with the idle pulley, let our professional mechanics inspect your model. Do not drive your car with a faulty idler pulley.
Motor Cars International: Leaders In European Auto Maintenance and Repairs
Motor Cars International understands both the 
external and internal workings of Land Rovers, and we will provide excellent maintenance for your vehicle. All our mechanics are ASE certified and we provide quality services with our factory-grade tools and equipment. If you live in Bridgewater or the surrounding areas of Easton, Norton, Raynham, and Sharon, visit our shop or call us to schedule an appointment to learn more about our services and maintenance programs.