The 2005 Chrysler Sebring engine runs on a combination of a serpentine belt and a V-belt system, which work in conjunction to turn both the motor and the various components within the engine. While traditional serpentine belts run the motor plus all of the additional components within, the Sebring uses the V-belt to control the accessories while the serpentine belt moves the V-belt and the engine. Removing and replacing the serpentine belt on a 2005 Chrysler Sebring requires only basic tools and a short amount of time, allowing you to get your vehicle back on the road quickly.
Open the hood of the vehicle and disconnect the wires to the battery. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts. Locate the belt configuration chart on the underside of the hood, which will show you the path of the serpentine belt and V-belt, as well as the location of the tensioner bolt that controls the tautness of the serpentine belt system. Refer to this chart for additional help.
Find the appropriate socket for the bolt along the tensioner pulley and attach it to the 3/8-inch ratchet handle. Place the socket head over the bolt on the tensioner pulley and push it in the direction indicated on the configuration chart on the hood of the vehicle to loosen the tension on the serpentine belt. Take the flat-head screwdriver to remove the serpentine belt from the tensioner pulley.
Remove the old belt from the pulleys throughout the engine. Refer to the configuration chart for the proper path to install the new belt. Work the belt flat against each pulley and keep things snug as you route the new belt through the various pulleys. Place the final loop over the tensioner pulley and tighten the tensioner adjuster bolt until the belt is tight, with only a slight amount of play in it.
Make a final, visual inspection to ensure that the belt is installed without any kinks or twists. Re-attach the leads to the battery and tighten the connector nuts with the adjustable wrench. Start the vehicle and listen for any signs of a faulty installation, such as screeching if the belt is too loose and is slipping or slapping sounds if the belt has come loose from one of the pulleys. Adjust if necessary and close the hood.
