Nissan Repair: Nissen Xterra 2005 Drive Belt, xterra 2005, flex head

Question
The dealership wants to charge me $95.00 to change out the multi rib belt. Is this something I can do myself. I can purchase the belt for $19.95 online but am unsure how hard it would be to change or if any special tools would be needed. Thanks

Answer
Hi Sharon -

That is quite outrageous. How many belts are you replacing? You should replace all of them since they are probably the same age.

Anyway, if you have the tools (I would say open end wrenches, flex head ratchet, sockets and extensions, mainly sizes 12MM to 17MM), is what you would need off the top of my head. If you have friends/family with these tools, ask to borrow them. Otherwise if you have to go out and buy them, you are better off paying someone to do the job. Shop for a better price too.

Each belt is removed by loosening the idler bolts, some are loosened by undoing the component that the belt drives. Each vehicle is a little different. It can be done yourself with a little patience and mechanical knowhow.

Hope this helps, Sharon, and let me know how it goes.

aloha
calvin