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Hyundai Solaris (Accent) 1.6 G4FC (2013): Alternator Belt Replacement

On the 1.6 G4FC, the drive belt runs the alternator and the power steering pump. Replace it every 60-80 thousand km (about 37,000-50,000 miles) or when you see signs of wear (cracks, delamination). This job is doable in a home garage. The key is setting the belt tension correctly.

Difficulty: Medium Time: 1-1.5 hours Steps: 9 Tools: 10, 12 and 13 mm wrenches, flat-blade screwdriver, 17 mm socket (for the crankshaft pulley), belt tensioning tool or pry bar

Part

  • 🔩 Hyundai alternator belt 97310-1R000 (aftermarket equivalents from Dayco, Gates). Verify the part number by VIN, since some trims may differ

Step by step

9 steps
  1. Open the hood and find the alternator on the right side of the engine (as viewed from the driver's seat). The belt runs between the crankshaft pulley at the bottom and the alternator pulley at the top.
  2. Disconnect the cable from the negative battery terminal and wait 10 minutes to let any residual current dissipate.
  3. Loosen the bolt that secures the alternator to the bracket (usually a 13 mm bolt on the right side of the alternator body). The alternator should shift 5-10 mm and release the belt tension.
  4. Remove the old belt by moving the alternator closer to the engine. Inspect the pulleys for cracks and chips.
  5. Route the new belt in the same order: around the crankshaft pulley, under the tensioner pulley (if equipped), and around the alternator pulley.
  6. Tension the belt by moving the alternator away from the engine. Correct tension: the belt should deflect 5-10 mm at the middle of the span between the pulleys when pressed with a finger using about 10 kg (22 lb) of force.
  7. Tighten the alternator mounting bolt (torque approximately 20-25 N·m (15-18 lb-ft); confirm the exact value in the service manual, because over-tightening will deform the bracket).
  8. Turn the crankshaft by hand 2-3 revolutions. The belt should not squeal or drift to one side.
  9. Reconnect the battery cable and start the engine. Let it idle for 1-2 minutes. Squealing indicates insufficient tension, so repeat steps 3-7.

Common mistakes and warnings

  • Too much tension will accelerate wear on the alternator and power steering pump bearings. Too little tension will cause the belt to slip and the battery to charge poorly. Use a new belt. An old one may stretch and need re-tensioning within a week.