5 Best Serpentine Belts Reviewed by Brand for 2025

Let’s face it, that dreaded squealing sound under the hood can send a chill down any driver’s spine. I’ve been there, pulling into the garage, wondering if it’s just a little water or if my serpentine belt is on its last leg. As someone who’s spent my fair share of weekends wrenching on cars, I know how crucial a reliable serpentine belt is for your engine’s performance. It’s not just about stopping that annoying squeal; it’s about ensuring your alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, and water pump all keep humming along smoothly. Choosing the best serpentine belt for your vehicle isn’t always straightforward with so many brands out there. That’s why I’ve put these top contenders from Bando and Goodyear through their paces (or at least, looked at them with a critical eye, considering real-world feedback) to give you an honest rundown. We’ll dive into what makes each one stand out, helping you make an informed decision for your car’s vital accessory drive system.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Bando USA 6PK2135 OEM Quality Serpentine Belt	View on Amazon
	Goodyear Belts 1070680 Serpentine Belt, 7-Rib, 68″ Length…	View on Amazon
	Bando USA 7PK1765 OEM Quality Serpentine Belt	View on Amazon
	Goodyear Belts 1070835 Serpentine Belt, 7-Rib, 83.5″ Length…	View on Amazon
	Bando USA 6PK2185 OEM Quality Serpentine Belt	View on Amazon

Bando USA 6PK2135 OEM Quality Serpentine Belt

When it comes to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) quality, Bando has certainly built a reputation, and this 6PK2135 belt lives up to it. I’ve always appreciated Bando for their commitment to mirroring the factory-installed part, and this belt is no exception. It’s designed to provide a quiet operation, which is a huge relief if you’ve ever dealt with a noisy belt. The proprietary “Run Quiet” technology truly shines here, aiming to give you better grip and less slip, directly translating to a smoother and quieter ride. You can feel the robustness in its construction, ensuring it can handle the demands of your engine’s accessories without a hitch. If you own one of the specific Acura models listed, this is a fantastic choice for a direct, reliable replacement.

Key features that stand out:
– Proprietary “Run Quiet” technology: Delivers better grip and less slip for noticeably quieter operation.
– Strong tensile cords: Expertly designed to carry high horsepower loads without stretching or deforming over time.
– Ground rubber ribs: Compounded from high strength synthetic rubber for exceptional wear resistance and extended service life.
– Fit: Specifically engineered for model year MDX (2003 – 2013), RL (2005 – 2012), TL (2004 – 2008), and ZDX (2010 – 2013).

Pros:
– Excellent OEM quality ensures a precise fit and performance.
– “Run Quiet” technology effectively reduces noise and slippage.
– Durable construction promises long-lasting reliability.
Cons:
– Its vehicle-specific fit might limit its application to a narrow range of models.

Best for: Owners of the specified Acura MDX, RL, TL, and ZDX models who prioritize OEM-level quiet operation and proven durability.

Expert Opinion: Bando’s “Run Quiet” technology is a significant advantage, especially for drivers sensitive to engine noise. The OEM quality means you’re getting a belt designed to meet the exact specifications of your vehicle, which is crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

Goodyear Belts 1070680 Serpentine Belt, 7-Rib, 68″ Length

Goodyear is a name synonymous with automotive reliability, and their serpentine belts are a testament to that. This 1070680 model is a prime example of their engineering prowess, designed to tackle the harsh environment under your hood. What immediately catches my eye is the combination of EPDM Rubber and Balanced Twist Polyester Cord. This isn’t just fancy jargon; it means this belt is built to resist heat, ozone, and abrasion – the main culprits that shorten a belt’s life. If you’re looking for a belt that can endure tough conditions and minimize maintenance, this Goodyear belt is definitely worth considering, especially for the compatible Acura models. Its robust build quality gives you confidence that it won’t let you down.

Key features that stand out:
– Fits: Designed for specific Acura models including 2007-2012 Acura RDX, 2022-2024 Acura RDX, 2002-2006 Acura RSX, and 2021-2024 Acura TLX.
– Goodyear Multi V Serpentine Belt with EPDM Rubber and Balanced Twist Polyester Cord: Offers exceptional durability and performance in automotive engine systems.
– EPDM Rubber Compound: Ensures long-lasting durability with outstanding resistance to heat, ozone, weathering, and abrasion.
– Balanced Twist Polyester Cord: Provides superior tensile strength for reliable power transmission and reduced maintenance in automotive applications.
– Length: 68 inch or 1727 mm; Alternate Part Number 7PK1727.

Pros:
– Superior durability and resistance to extreme conditions (heat, ozone).
– High tensile strength cord provides reliable power transmission.
– Designed for reduced maintenance over its lifespan.
Cons:
– Fitment is quite specific to certain Acura models, requiring careful verification.

Best for: Acura RDX, RSX, and TLX owners who prioritize a belt with outstanding heat, ozone, and abrasion resistance for long-term, low-maintenance performance.

Expert Opinion: The EPDM rubber compound combined with the balanced twist polyester cord is a winning formula for longevity. This belt is engineered to stand up to the most punishing under-hood conditions, making it a solid choice for drivers who demand maximum durability from their serpentine belts.

Bando USA 7PK1765 OEM Quality Serpentine Belt

Another fantastic offering from Bando, this 7PK1765 belt reinforces their reputation as a top-tier OEM supplier. What sets Bando apart, and something I always look for, is their consistent recognition from major car manufacturers. We’re talking about over 100 quality awards from giants like GM, Toyota, Honda, and Nissan. This isn’t just marketing fluff; it speaks volumes about the quality control and engineering behind their products. Like its sibling, this belt features strong tensile cords and durable ground rubber ribs, ensuring it can handle the horsepower demands without stretching and provides excellent wear resistance. Its specific dimensions (7 Ribs x 1765 mm) mean you need to be precise with your measurement, but if it fits, you’re getting an OEM-grade part.

Key features that stand out:
– Dimensions: 7 Ribs x 1765 mm or 7 Ribs x 69.5 Inch, ensuring precise fitment when matched correctly.
– Strong tensile cords: Engineered to carry high horsepower loads efficiently without undesirable stretching.
– Award winning OEM supplier: Recognized with over 100 major quality awards from leading manufacturers such as GM, Toyota, Honda, VW, and Nissan.
– Ground rubber ribs: Made from high strength synthetic rubber for superior wear resistance and extended operational life.

Pros:
– Backed by an extensive track record of OEM awards, ensuring high quality.
– Robust construction with strong cords prevents stretching and ensures power transmission.
– Offers long-lasting wear resistance from its high-strength rubber compound.
Cons:
– Requires exact dimensional matching, which can be tricky without the right tools or information.

Best for: DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics seeking a highly reliable, OEM-quality serpentine belt from a globally recognized brand where specific dimensions are crucial.

Expert Opinion: Bando’s impressive list of OEM quality awards speaks for itself. When you choose a Bando belt, you’re investing in a product that car manufacturers themselves trust. This particular belt, while dimension-specific, promises exceptional reliability and longevity due to its robust construction.

Goodyear Belts 1070835 Serpentine Belt, 7-Rib, 83.5″ Length

Goodyear makes another appearance with their 1070835 serpentine belt, showcasing their versatility across a broader range of vehicles. This belt is not just for compact cars; its fitment list includes larger vehicles like Audi A8 Quattro, Chevrolet Kodiak, and Land Rover Range Rover. This immediately tells me it’s built to handle significant loads and diverse engine layouts. Just like the other Goodyear offering, it boasts the winning combination of EPDM Rubber Compound and Balanced Twist Polyester Cord for superior durability and heat resistance. What’s more, the Multi V Design is engineered to improve efficiency and reduce slippage, ensuring your engine’s accessories receive consistent power. If you have a vehicle on its extensive compatibility list, this belt offers serious performance and peace of mind.

Key features that stand out:
– Fits: Comprehensive compatibility with vehicles such as 2014-2017 Audi A8 Quattro, 2003 Chevrolet C7500 Kodiak, 2003 GMC C7500 Topkick, and 1995-1998 Land Rover Range Rover.
– Goodyear Multi V Serpentine Belt with EPDM Rubber and Balanced Twist Polyester Cord: Offers superior durability and performance in various automotive engine systems.
– EPDM Rubber Compound and Balanced Twist Polyester Cord: Ensures long-lasting performance, outstanding resistance to heat, and significantly reduced maintenance requirements.
– Multi V Design: Specifically engineered to improve efficiency, reduce slippage, and enhance power transmission for superior automotive performance.
– Length: 83.5 inch or 2121 mm; Alternate Part Number 7PK2121.

Pros:
– Wide range of vehicle compatibility, making it a versatile choice.
– Advanced EPDM and polyester cord construction for extreme durability and heat resistance.
– Multi V design enhances efficiency and reduces slippage effectively.
Cons:
– The broad fitment requires careful cross-referencing to confirm compatibility with your exact model.

Best for: Owners of a wide array of vehicles, including larger or performance-oriented models, who need a durable, high-efficiency serpentine belt capable of handling demanding conditions.

Expert Opinion: The Goodyear 1070835 stands out for its robust construction tailored for heavier-duty applications and a wider range of vehicles. Its Multi V design is key for maintaining efficiency and minimizing slip, which is crucial for consistent accessory performance across diverse engine types.

Bando USA 6PK2185 OEM Quality Serpentine Belt

Rounding out our Bando selections, the 6PK2185 continues the brand’s tradition of high-quality, OEM-grade products. This belt shares the core strengths of its Bando siblings: the proprietary “Run Quiet” technology, strong tensile cords, and ground rubber ribs made from durable synthetic rubber. For me, the “Run Quiet” feature is always a strong selling point because a silent engine is a happy engine. It’s designed to deliver that reliable, factory-like performance with minimal noise and maximum durability. While its fit type is “Vehicle Specific,” it’s crucial to confirm it matches your car’s exact specifications. If it does, you’re getting a proven performer that will keep your engine’s accessories running smoothly and quietly for miles to come.

Key features that stand out:
– Proprietary “Run Quiet” technology: Guarantees better grip and less slip, leading to a significantly quieter operation.
– Strong tensile cords: Robustly designed to carry high horsepower loads without stretching under stress.
– Ground rubber ribs: Compounded from high strength synthetic rubber, ensuring superior wear resistance and a long operational lifespan.
– Fit type: Vehicle Specific: Designed for precise compatibility with particular vehicle models.

Pros:
– Excellent noise reduction thanks to its “Run Quiet” technology.
– High-quality OEM construction ensures reliability and longevity.
– Resists stretching and wear, maintaining consistent accessory performance.
Cons:
– Only suitable for specific vehicle models, necessitating accurate fitment checks.

Best for: Drivers who prioritize a quiet engine bay and seek the proven reliability and exact fit of an OEM-quality serpentine belt that matches their specific vehicle’s requirements.

Expert Opinion: The “Run Quiet” technology in Bando belts, including this 6PK2185 model, genuinely makes a difference in reducing under-hood noise. Coupled with Bando’s consistent OEM quality, this belt offers a reliable and quiet solution for compatible vehicles.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking at the best serpentine belts reviewed by brand, we’re primarily comparing two titans: Bando and Goodyear.

Bando’s strengths generally lie in its OEM quality and focus on quiet operation. Belts like the Bando USA 6PK2135 and 6PK2185 boast their “Run Quiet” technology, which is a significant advantage if engine noise bothers you. Their strong tensile cords and ground rubber ribs are designed for anti-stretching and long life, directly mirroring factory parts. Bando is also an award-winning OEM supplier, which speaks volumes about their consistent quality and reliability. However, Bando belts often feature vehicle-specific fitments, meaning you’ll need to double-check compatibility very carefully.

On the other hand, Goodyear belts emphasize superior durability and advanced material science. Their use of EPDM Rubber Compound and Balanced Twist Polyester Cord in models like the Goodyear 1070680 and 1070835 ensures outstanding resistance to heat, ozone, weathering, and abrasion. If you live in an extreme climate or put a lot of miles on your vehicle, this enhanced durability is a massive plus. Goodyear also offers Multi V Designs that improve efficiency and reduce slippage. While some Goodyear belts are vehicle-specific, the 1070835 notably caters to a wider range of vehicles, including larger and heavier-duty applications, making it a versatile option if you confirm its length and rib count.

The choice often comes down to your priorities:
* If quiet operation and exact OEM replication are paramount, Bando is likely your best bet, provided you find the correct vehicle-specific fit.
* If extreme durability, resistance to harsh conditions, and perhaps broader compatibility (with careful measurement) are higher on your list, Goodyear offers robust solutions.

Both brands provide strong tensile cords and durable rubber compounds, ensuring reliable power transmission and wear resistance. The key is always to verify the length and rib count against your old belt or your vehicle’s specifications. Don’t assume a belt will fit just because it’s from a reputable brand; specific dimensions are crucial.

Final Verdict

So, which is the best serpentine belt for you? It truly boils down to your vehicle’s specific needs and your driving priorities.

If a quiet ride is what you crave above all else, and you drive one of the compatible Acura models, either the Bando USA 6PK2135 or Bando USA 6PK2185 with their “Run Quiet” technology will serve you exceptionally well. Their OEM quality means you’re getting a factory-grade replacement that you can trust.

For those who prioritize uncompromising durability and resistance to harsh environmental factors, the Goodyear Belts 1070680 or Goodyear Belts 1070835 are stellar choices. Their EPDM rubber and balanced twist polyester cord construction are engineered to withstand extreme heat, ozone, and abrasion, promising a long, low-maintenance lifespan. The Goodyear 1070835 particularly stands out for its versatility across a wider range of vehicle types.

And for the mechanically inclined who need a specific dimension from a globally recognized OEM supplier, the Bando USA 7PK1765 offers that exact precision with a long list of quality accolades.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either Bando or Goodyear; both brands are at the top of their game. Just remember to always double-check the fitment, including length, rib count, and vehicle compatibility, to ensure you select the perfect serpentine belt for your car’s reliable operation. Your engine will thank you!

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: How often should I replace my serpentine belt?
A1: Most manufacturers recommend inspecting your serpentine belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles or every 4-5 years, and replacing it if you see signs of wear. However, always consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific recommendations.

Q2: What are the common signs of a failing serpentine belt?
A2: Look out for visible cracks, fraying, missing chunks, glazing (a shiny appearance), or a squealing/chirping noise coming from under the hood, especially when starting the engine or turning the steering wheel. Any of these could indicate it’s time for a new serpentine belt.

Q3: Can I replace a serpentine belt myself?
A3: For many vehicles, replacing a serpentine belt is a DIY-friendly task that requires basic tools and some mechanical aptitude. However, some vehicles have complex routing or tensioner mechanisms that might be challenging. Always refer to a service manual specific to your car and ensure the engine is cool before starting work.

Q4: What’s the main difference between Bando and Goodyear serpentine belts?
A4: While both are high-quality brands, Bando often focuses on OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) quality and “Run Quiet” technology for reduced noise. Goodyear, on the other hand, emphasizes extreme durability with materials like EPDM rubber and balanced twist polyester cords for superior resistance to heat, ozone, and abrasion, and often features a Multi V design for enhanced efficiency.

Q5: How do I find the right serpentine belt for my car?
A5: The best way is to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the belt itself (if the numbers are still legible). You’ll typically look for numbers indicating the number of ribs (e.g., 6PK, 7PK) and the total length in millimeters or inches. Websites like Amazon usually have a “garage” feature where you can input your car’s make, model, and year to find compatible serpentine belts.

Q6: What does “OEM Quality” mean for a serpentine belt?
A6: “OEM Quality” means the belt is manufactured to the exact specifications and standards of the original part that came with your vehicle from the factory. This ensures a precise fit, optimal performance, and reliability comparable to the original equipment, making it one of the best serpentine belts you can choose for compatibility.

Q7: Is a quieter serpentine belt necessarily better?
A7: A quiet serpentine belt is often a sign of proper tension and good condition. Brands like Bando specifically engineer belts for quieter operation, which can contribute to a more pleasant driving experience. While noise isn’t the only indicator of quality, a squealing belt usually signals wear or improper installation, so a quiet, properly functioning belt is definitely preferable.