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Step 1
Let your engine cool for at least half an hour if you've been driving your Honda Prelude.
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Step 2
Pop the hood of your Honda Prelude, prop it open and look for the drive belts. There may be one, two or three depending on what year and engine type you have. Generally, belts are found around the air conditioning compressor, alternator, power steering pump and crankcase pulley. These belts can include a serpentine belt operating multiple components or flat, multi-ribbed V-belts that only operate one or two components apiece.
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Step 3
Examine the belts for any fraying, cracking or tearing. All of these are signs that a belt needs replacing. Look closely at the insides of the belts, where cracks tend to start.
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Step 4
Use your hands to feel along the entire length of the belts in your Honda Prelude. If a belt feels glossy or smooth, that means the belt is worn and needs replacing. You should be able to feel the natural texture of the belt, if it's in good shape. If your Prelude has V-belts, feel for the ribbing on the belts and if the ribs are worn down, replace the belt.
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Step 5
Check for any oil on the belts. If you find any, you could have an oil leak, in which case, you not only need to replace the belt, but you also need to locate the leak and fix it.
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Step 6
If you think any of the belts need replacing, you can do it yourself or take your Honda Prelude to a mechanic.
