How To Replace The Drive Belts On A 2003 Honda Civic

[@lockinbrian]

I love the inspirational title. I need to do this to my car and I was thinking that I couldn’t but now I am have confidence people like you inspire me. God bless you.

[@unclebill8684]

Thank you, friend. Your video's are still blessing people. Just replaced both belts with many references to this video. Many thanks.

[@martinbuschau3209]

Hi Jim. Your video was a big help to this first time belt changing newbie. A few things I wanted to comment on - using a swivel head socket handle to loosen the 2nd power steering bolt was great advice - I tried a normal 3/8" socket and couldn't get the 12mm socket to seat on the bolt head and it took every tiny bit of handle travel to rotate the bolt enough to get another socket seat. The 2nd thing is that the "hidden" top alternator bolt is actually a 14mm - initially in the video it's referred to as a 12mm and later on when it's being tightened referred to in the correct size. Finding that hidden head was initially a challenge but became much easier once I was able to identify where that alternator bolt was hiding - you can see the bolt easily once the AC-Alternator belt is off. Thirdly tightening the wing-bolt tensioner for the AC-Alternator bolt enough is absolutely critical and it is such a super pain to accomplish because that wing-bolt is awkward to grasp and turn. Even pliers can only grab the wing-bolt for small partial turns. I persevered and turned the wing-bolt as much as I could before moving on to tighten the other two bolts and it was worth the effort. Everyone needs to keep in mind that the AC-Alternator belt is the toughest one to get right and the most likely one to start squeaking - your words of advice are well given. I also used soapy water and paper towels to clean the pulley surfaces of any grease/dirt/rust prior to putting on the new belts (and there was lots that came off). The goal of ridding my 2003 Acura 1.7 EL of a squeaky belt was accomplished and the new Gates' belts look great. Thank you so much for posting this video!

[@SilverJunkie-ls4ub]

Had to do this today with my wife's 2003 civic...couldn't have done it without the help in your video.....Thanks so much!

[@jimthecarguy]

I'm happy to help.Thank you for stopping by.

[@chadr4298]

Thanks for helping me save some money by teaching me to do this myself, Jim! I didn't find too many other videos out there, so I was happy I found your clear and concise step-by-step tutorial. Keep 'em coming!

[@jimthecarguy]

+Chad R Thank you I'm happy to help.

[@jameswhyte1340]

Finally! someone who knows how to use a flashlight when doing tutorial videos! thank you for being patient when explaining this too. A lot of times the youtube mechanics will just rush through these videos without giving the small but crucial steps. Also, I have this squealing noise too, could it possibly be a tensioner issue?

[@jimthecarguy]

+James Whyte Thank you for your feedback and your input.As for the noise if the belt is tight then you want to look at the tension.Keep me posted and let me know if you need any further advice

[@jameswhyte1340]

+jimthecarguy Could you tell me the type of ratchet you used in this video? and the drive. Looks like a solid ratchet!

[@jimthecarguy]

+James Whyte Good question the ratchets I almost always use are Snap on.You pay a lot but they are the best.

[@jameswhyte1340]

+jimthecarguy Awesome! Thanks again!

[@tinaphillips5265]

@@jimthecarguy

[@vrgdmn]

I did this without the video. Contrary to the video I put both of the belts on without tensioning either, thinking I'd tension them one at a time with both belts on. Big mistake. With the steering pump belt on, that 14 socket bolt that pivots the alternator is very difficult to tighten. The steering pump belt is seriously in the way. Follow this video exactly. Don't make that mistake. Complete the alternator belt 100% before even putting on the steering pump belt. Great video. Thank you.

[@jimthecarguy]

+Doug Craig Thank you for your input and for watching.

[@schneal3]

Hi Jim. I used your video today to swap the belts on my own 03 Civic. Thanks for all the great tips. It was really helpful to have a tutorial before jumping in.

[@jimthecarguy]

Thanks for watching.I'm happy to help. Don't forget to hit the bell for notifications when a new video is posted

[@TheGuyThatWondersWhy]

You are the man Jim! Thanks for this video. I really liked how you were almost whispering as though I were there with you. Very soothing

[@godzzla]

Thanks Jim for the video. The bottom belt was pretty bad like you said. When I was ready to replace the belts I removed all the bolts holding the PS pump, and was able to move it out of the way, then got to that top alternator bolt from the top, replaced the bottom belt first, tension-ed, then replaced the top belt. I had no problem adjusting the tensions. I think it helped that I had no rust. Lucked out. Thanks for the great video Jim. Steve

[@chezenbred]

Great video, but I would say it could be helpful to offer advice on one thing a lot of people will hit. That wing nut/bolt on the alternator to adjust the tension will almost certainly be rusted solid. If some PB doesn't free it up you can take out the bolt connecting it to the alternator, then the bolt that holds that adjustment bracket to the engine. Pull that piece out and you can free up that adjuster much easier. I threw it in a vice and it came free easily with a pair of pliers that I simply couldn't get into that tight spot in the car.

[@jimthecarguy]

Thank you for your input and for watching

[@cbgreely]

Yes I had to do this also. Still was painful to turn the wingnut once back in the car but it was possible....left hand until I couldn't get a grip amymore, then some pliers with an angled head for a bit until I could turn it my right hand...then repeat. Between the two of you I got it done. Thanks.

[@SlothComplex]

Thank you for this video, everything was spot on, though I had to grab a 14mm for the top alternator bolt. My belts were in great shape, but the lower bolt on the alternator looks like it was barely hanging on and basically stripped out of place. Couldn't have troubleshot it without this helpful video, thank you!

[@jimthecarguy]

+Gair Arney Thank you for your feedback and for watching

[@TheDopedemon69]

I really want to thank you. You are awesome!!!!

[@frankanastasia4780]

Thank you! Awesome video. Very complete and detailed!

[@benjamincapill736]

This video was really helpful - thanks very much Jim.

[@jimthecarguy]

+Ben C Thank you for your input and for watching

[@salmonmuncher3235]

AWESOME video thanks!! i have to go do this job on a friends car now .

[@frankaraullo8195]

Tons of thanks for your video sir. At this time i have a problem on my Civic 2003. The drive belt (as shown in this video) is very very near to get cut. In this reason, i decided not to restart again the car because i am so worried of something could happen while i am on the road. I want to know, in case the fan belt (connected to the alternator and a/c compressor) get cut while on the road, would it be dangerous? Thank you for your promt reply.

[@jimthecarguy]

If it were to get cut on the road it will be very bad because you will loose the alternator. It is better to replace it before it fails. Thanks for watching.

[@silencer8984]

Thanks for helping me save millions!

[@jakethelion6664]

Hello sir, I just watched your video on the belts replacement on the 2003 Honda Civic. and it was very informative. I was wondering if you know the part number/or the correct size of the 2 belts that were replaced. Thanks in advance...

[@michaelpaterson8086]

Hey Jim another Great educational video brother, keep up the Great work 😁. Jim PLEASE PLEASE do a drive belt replacement video on the silver 1996-2000 Civic coupe I've seen parked in your shop, preferably the D-series engines, I really wanna change out my drive belts on my 2000 Civic Ej9 Hatchback, would appreciate your help brother 🙏🏽😁

[@snipersmokez4647]

great vid! so on top of the power steering pump, i am missing a little hunk of metal that holds the threaded rod with wingnut on it to adjust the tightness. can i just fabricate and piece of flat metal and drill 2 holes in it and should work? or goto honda dealership and see if they would even sell such a thing? thanks

[@kissitnow898]

Hi Jim. Could you do a video on how to replace transmission fluid on a Toyota with no dipstick. That would be awesome. Thanks

[@jimthecarguy]

Great suggestion!

[@jackdiodato2465]

I have a brake line leak up front center of my Honda Civic, 2002, and was wondering if the fluid could splash onto my belts and cause problems with my Alternator? And if that's the case, what can I clean the belts with to get the brake fluid off the belts and clean off the pulleys. I hear water is good enough to wash away brake fluid. I was wondering if something else would be better. WD-40?

[@gregggerstner6601]

Thank You very much. I will be cussing significantly less, and now understand what I am in for. Much appreciated!

[@jimthecarguy]

+Gregg Gerstner I'm happy to help.let me know how you do.

[@gregggerstner6601]

+jimthecarguy Thanks Jimmy It went really well. I did deviate a small bit. Removed the power steering pump, which gave me enough room for my large hands to maneuver around the alternator release/tensioner. Again, thank you so much, it would have taken me a long time to figure out to remove the tire and access through the skirting. You saved me countless words of curse.

[@isaiah5721]

Jim how much time is to replase pawer steering belt on 2004 honda civic 1.7L engine

[@ledzeppelin1212]

Thanks a lot, Jim!

[@jimthecarguy]

My pleasure!

[@WhatsNoise]

Thank you! Is it a bad idea to only replace the bottom belt? My top belt looks in good shape.

[@jimthecarguy]

WhatsNoise I would recommend replacing all the belts at the same time. Thanks for watching

[@KevinSmith-vl4xp]

Might be a stupid question but what is the difference between these and the serpentine belt? Or is it the same thing just different name?

[@cristobalsoto9839]

nice video man thank u

[@jimthecarguy]

Thank you for watching

[@joserenteria7001]

Can you loosen the 14mm bolt from the top when doing the ac belt?

[@jimthecarguy]

No it must be reached from the side.Good luck.

[@chrismaxwell2274]

@@jimthecarguy - What if I remove the power steering pump? I know it's an extra step but in my head it works. Haha

[@RobertoCruz-ol5up]

Very helpful

[@DiamondScuff]

Wow. great video thanks hopefully can fix my squeelin civ

[@alzzofzidan9403]

Thank you...from Indonesia

[@jimthecarguy]

I'm happy to help.Thanks for watching.

[@alanlo-557]

Thanks! Squealing Minnesota Civic no longer squeals!

[@isaelpedraza4807]

thanks for the video GOD BLESS YOU

[@jimthecarguy]

Thank you for your feedback and for watching

[@th4wra1th2]

I can't find that 12 mm bolt you said there was on top of the alternater there's a 14 mm but when I loosened it nothing happens the alternator didn't swing down like in the video

[@jimthecarguy]

+Robert Ingram If it is the same car the bolts should be the same size.If you did loosen the bolts it my just be tight try pushing on the belt or the alt

[@th4wra1th2]

+jimthecarguy I appreciate the help I got it I'm going to be doing valve cover gaskets and timing belt next do you have a video tho that?

[@jimthecarguy]

+Robert Ingram Sorry I don't have any.If you run into a problem let me know I can help.

[@arcdraw]

Great video!

[@jimthecarguy]

thank you

[@GLox1590]

I have to replace my A/C Alternator belt that broke off. Do I have to remove the power steering belt in order to put the new A/C alternator belt on?

[@jimthecarguy]

+Gregory John Yes you do need to remove the power steering belt.Make sure to check and see why the Alt .belt broke possibly a bad tensioner or Alt.Keep me posted and let me know if you need any advice.

[@GLox1590]

+jimthecarguy Thanks! Another problem; not the wing-nut but the second bolt (the 12mm, I think) on the power steering pump is so rusted on top that the hex head is becoming smooth from trying to take it off. I pretty much can't get it off. I'm worried a lot of these might be rusted, I'll get WD-40 for the rest but how do I get off the one I mentioned?

[@jimthecarguy]

+Gregory John That sound bad.Are you using a socket?Make sure to use a quality socket such as Snap on,Matco or Napa Don't use the off shore type from Japan or China they are garbage and will cause a lot of trouble.Keep me posted.

[@GLox1590]

+jimthecarguy Just the same thing you did in the video; a wrench, the first 12mm bolt you remove off the power steering pump. The bolt head is already too rounded. Should I get one of those turbo sockets? That metal hose to the left of the bolt/pump assembly is in the way. Can it be removed to get to that 12mm bolt with a socket wrench and turbo socket head? (Thanks again, for responding to these so quickly. Long story short the funds are not there for me to get my car towed to the shop or I'd do it. Just need to do what I can to replace the belt myself.)

[@jimthecarguy]

+Gregory John Is it the bolt at 1:50 of my video? If so can you get to the 12mm with a socket?

[@bobrobertz6822]

Help! What ratchet works to get to the 12 mm bolt that is next do the power steering reservoir? Also - I've replaced both belts but still have squealing. Can I tighten the AC belt below by turning the wing nut without having to loosen all the other belts? Thanks, and great videos!!

[@jimthecarguy]

I know that 12mm is a real pain to get to.I used a Snap on ratchet .It's a tight fit but works.

[@bobrobertz6822]

Thanks, Jim! Also, I need to re-tighten the AC belt. Can I do it with the wing nut only, or do I have to lose all the other bolts as well?

[@jimthecarguy]

Good question,You can just tighten the one with the wing nut without loosing the other.

[@quantumpeep866]

I've replaced the alternator and belt on my GF's car and am sure I've got the belt at the right tension. It seems after awhile it gets to sqeaking again, especially when we turn the heater on. Im at my wits end. Doing it again today. HELP!

[@lorenzocano6309]

You ever find out what it was. Was it the pullies.

[@cbgreely]

Very helpful...thanks!

[@davidplaing1]

Thank you!!!

[@jimthecarguy]

Happy to help.

[@ProudWhiteBoy]

there are no fan belts on this car

[@jimthecarguy]

Wesley Clarke thank you for stopping by the shop

[@OCTAAB6]

Kool

[@manuelrodrigues3767]

Manuel Rodrigues

[@dimonruss]

"Fan belts"??? What fan? Aren't those drive belts? They have nothing to do with a fan.

[@jimthecarguy]

+dimonruss Thank you for pointing that out to me.You are correct.Being in the business for 40 years it hard to brake and old habit of calling them fan belts.I will try to remember that on my next video.Have a great Holiday..Lol.

[@stevenhale600]

You cant replace the fan belt on a honda civic. The fan doesn't have a belt . lol

[@jimthecarguy]

Hahaha now you know that I have been working on cars for a long time. Drive belt. . Thanks for watching. Don't forget to hit the bell for notifications when a new video is posted

[@dimonruss]

otherwise a good video

[@jimthecarguy]

+dimonruss Thank you

[@andreburruss11]

Yikes

[@jimthecarguy]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@nonperishables5870]

that POS car has no fan belts. the fans are electric.

[@fatfinger7436]

Thank you sir!