flat transmission belt

2. Labor Costs Replacing an engine belt isn't always a straightforward task. The labor involved in changing a serpentine belt can take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on engine design and accessibility. Consequently, labor costs can add an additional $75 to $150 to the final bill. Timing belts, due to their complexity and the tight space in many engine bays, can take significantly longer to replace—often resulting in labor costs that can exceed $300.


...

A serpentine belt is a long, winding belt that drives multiple peripheral devices in an engine, including the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, air conditioning compressor, and sometimes even the turbocharger. In the case of the LB7 engine, this single belt is designed to streamline the connection between the engine’s crankshaft and various components, ensuring their effective operation. Unlike older vehicles that have multiple belts for different accessories, a serpentine belt simplifies the layout and reduces the overall weight of the engine.


...