One of the drive belts on my NB has just gone kaput. Assuming the alternator belt as the abs and battery lights came on and the temp started rising.
Going to have to get it towed but the question is, how much of a job is replacing it? I’m very much a newbie when it comes to home repairs, but I’m open to trying.
Alternatively, any rough idea of cost at a garage would be helpful too.
Also, if i go down the garage route, I assume it makes sense to do the timing belt at the same time, given I don’t think it’s ever been changed.
Hopefully it was just an old tired belt and nothing else caused it to snap.
Were there any unusual noises beforehand?
It is worth doing a quick check on how freely the empty pulleys can be moved by hand; all should be smooth and easy, except the crankshaft pulley at the very bottom of the engine which is the one doing the work.
Sometimes bearings or the item being driven seize, this is almost guaranteed to snap a belt, usually with a bit of a squeal immediately before it goes.
Alternator is a possible on NB. If you find it has seized make sure it is replaced with the correct type for that year and engine size, check against the chassis number too. Two different and incompatible control systems are possible on the NB.
If you are in any doubt at all, ask a professional to sort it for you!