Our certified mechanics come to you · Backed by our 12-month, 12,000-mile warranty · Get a fair and transparent estimate upfront
Chances are good that your car is equipped with two air injection systems. One, the primary system, sends air through the air filter and into the intake, where it’s mixed with fuel for combustion. The secondary air intake uses a pump to send air into the exhaust system, which is then re-burned to reduce emissions and provide better fuel economy.
The air pump on this second system can be either belt-driven or electric. If it’s a belt-driven model, it may be driven by a separate belt (which is becoming rarer these days), or it’s driven by the serpentine belt that operates most of the other accessories attached to the engine.
The air pump belt is responsible for taking energy from the crankshaft and applying it to the pump, allowing it to operate. If the belt were to break, the air pump would stop, and the secondary injection system wouldn’t work. Of course, if it were a serpentine belt, then the same thing would apply to all the other accessories powered by that belt.
The air pump belt should be inspected at every service interval including oil changes. If it is showing signs of wear, cracking, stretching, or is missing, have it replaced by one of our expert mechanics.
The air pump belt powers the secondary air injection system, which is an integral part of your emissions system. However, if it’s a serpentine belt, then that the belt also powers things like your air conditioning, alternator, power steering system and other vital components. If you notice unusual belt wear, we recommend having it replaced as soon as possible.
Our service team is available 7 days a week, Monday - Friday from 6 AM to 5 PM PST, Saturday - Sunday 7 AM - 4 PM PST.
