The presence of small cracks in a serpentine belt are not an indication the belt is about to fail and needs to be replaced. Widely spaced small cracks are acceptable on ribbed serpentine belts. Some indications of potential serpentine belt failures include:
a. Three or more cracks within a 3-inch section of the belt.
b. Cracks extending from the tips of the ribs to the belt body.
c. Chunks of the ribs are missing.
d. There is a buildup of belt material between the ribs.
