MJF

Good evening,

I just parked my 2001 f150 5.4l lariat at the side of the street, wanted to start it again 5min later and the power steering doesn't work anymore. What could that be? Can anyone help me? Thank you so much.

Best,

Michael

crazyrwe

did you check your serpentine belt, power steering hose?

MJF

Thanks so much! The serpentine belt broke/ was ripped apart! How much is that to replace approximately? And can I do it without experience? Probably not right? And no driving atm? Thanks a lot

Blckwlf

Belts are affordable and easy to replace. Belts are what $30-$40. Weave the belt in according to the sticker in the engine bay, then stick a half inch drive breaker bar in the socket on the belt tensioner. Loosen the tension and pull it over the alternator pulley. Done.

MJF

Thanks so much, guys! I'll handle it tomorrow! After how many miles is it normal for a belt to break?

CollinM

Never normal to break. Depends on weather. But after like 5 years I would be keeping an eye out for cracks and chunks missing. Also inspect your pullys to make sure you don't damage new belt

MJF

CarFax shows that the last one was replaced 100,000 miles ago (at 140,000 miles). Recently, a mechanic detached the compressor since it wasn't working anymore and ever since there was a weird noise and from time to time a loud piping when I stopped the car, could that be related? Thanks for your inputs!

crazyrwe

When you say detatched, do you mean there is no compressor anymore? That would need a different size belt for sure. The pulley may have seized and snapped your belt. I'm not 100% sure, but I believe that pulley works for your defrost as well.

MJF

I was just at the mechanic. The compressor was still there but somehow detached. Anyway, the pulley from the compressor locked. I have to get a new compressor, drier etc. for 1200$. At least the A/C will work again. Thanks for your inputs...