1997 BMW Z3 serpentine belt

TEEDIE

MEMBER
1997 BMW Z3
4 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
97,000 MILES

Is the serpentine belt which runs around alternator also the same which goes around AC.I know it is very long.

what if a mechanic puts on 2 separate belts instead of the long one?

how could replacing these two belts cost over $80.00 just for the belts (not labor)?
thanks

1 Reply

DOCHAGERTY

MECHANIC
9,601 POSTS

The A/C belt and the alternator/power steering pump/water pump belt are two seperate belts. The cost of these belts is determined by the margin of profit the garage makes. If you price the belts at a parts house, they will most certainly be less expensive. The downside of a free market economy is that there are repair shops out there that are only in it for the $$$$$$$$$ and thats all I have to say about that.