How to Change a Serpentine Belt on a 2002 Saab 9-3

The 2002 Saab 9-3 is a luxury compact car. It is available as a four-door hatchback, a two-door hatchback, or a convertible. "All models used turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engines, with a five-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic." (consumerguideauto.com) It comes equipped with standard safety features which include anti-lock braking, front side airbags, Saab acceleration. The 2002 9-3 is known for great acceleration, cargo room and brake performance. It is an excellent runner with a decent engine, good safety features and an all-around appeal.

Things You'll Need

• Tensioner pulley bar

Instructions

1. Park the Saab on a flat, safe area. Open the hood. Set the car in park or put the parking brake on.

2. Place the bar on the tensioner pulley. The pulley is in the front-center of the engine compartment. It is about nine inches across and is part of the serpentine belt assembly.

3. Remove the serpentine belt. Apply pressure to the pulley to release the tension on the belt. Denote the pathway of the belt if the engine compartment does not have a diagram to show you the path of the belt.

4. Install the new belt. String the belt along its proper path, leaving the pulley for last. Apply pressure to the pulley again and put the belt over it. Release the pulley and the belt will tighten.

References

• Saab 9-3 review
• 1998-2002 Saab 9-3 Haynes Repair Manual; Haynes; 2003