The 2003 Honda Accord began the seventh generation of the Accord, which was introduced in 1976 and was Hondas second offering, after the Civic. For 2003, the Accord was powered by a standard 2.4-liter inline-four or optional 3.0-liter V-6 engine. These engines use a serpentine belt that is retained by an automatic belt tensioner. The do-it-yourself mechanic should have no problem replacing the belt.
Instructions
Honda Accord 2.4-liter
- 1
Park the Accord on a level surface and set the parking brake. Let the engine cool down before changing the belt.
2Find the belt-routing diagram. It should be on the radiator support or strut tower. If you cannot find it or it is missing, draw the belts path with pencil and paper or take some pictures with a digital camera. Do not simply try to remember how the belt goes on.
3Place a ratchet and socket on the bolt in the center of the tensioner. The tensioner is between the alternator and valve cover. Turn the ratchet clockwise toward the front of the Accord to relieve tension on the belt. The tensioner will pivot on its arm. Pull the belt off the tensioner and thread it off the rest of the pulleys.
4Guide the new belt through the pulleys -- following the belt-routing diagram, your photographs or your own diagram -- ending at the tensioner. Use the ratchet and socket to turn the tensioner. Mount the belt onto the tensioner.
Honda Accord 3.0-liter
- 5
Look for the belt diagram. If you cannot find it, draw one or take pictures.
6Find the tensioner. It is just to the left of the alternator.
7Mount the ratchet and socket in the center of the tensioner. Turn the tensioner counterclockwise toward the rear of the Accord to pivot it out of the way. Slide the belt from the tensioner and remove it.
8Install the new belt. Pivot the tensioner again and slide the belt onto the tensioner.
