Ford Thunderbird Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement Costs

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Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement Service

How much does a Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement cost?

On average, the cost for a Ford Thunderbird Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement is $222 with $82 for parts and $140 for labor. Prices may vary depending on your location.

Car	Service	Estimate	Shop/Dealer Price
1997 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8L	Service typeDrive Belt Tensioner Replacement	Estimate$351.80	Shop/Dealer Price$404.60 - $554.90
1996 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8L	Service typeDrive Belt Tensioner Replacement	Estimate$342.79	Shop/Dealer Price$393.82 - $542.80
2002 Ford ThunderbirdV8-3.9L	Service typeDrive Belt Tensioner Replacement	Estimate$367.45	Shop/Dealer Price$424.67 - $592.16
1996 Ford ThunderbirdV8-4.6L	Service typeDrive Belt Tensioner Replacement	Estimate$309.19	Shop/Dealer Price$351.85 - $475.64
1990 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8L	Service typeDrive Belt Tensioner Replacement	Estimate$342.79	Shop/Dealer Price$395.32 - $545.42
1991 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8L Turbo	Service typeDrive Belt Tensioner Replacement	Estimate$610.95	Shop/Dealer Price$729.19 - $1079.41
1991 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8L	Service typeDrive Belt Tensioner Replacement	Estimate$342.79	Shop/Dealer Price$393.86 - $542.87
1995 Ford ThunderbirdV6-3.8L Turbo	Service typeDrive Belt Tensioner Replacement	Estimate$610.95	Shop/Dealer Price$729.05 - $1079.16

Show example Ford Thunderbird Drive Belt Tensioner Replacement prices

What is the Drive Belt Tensioner all about?

A Drive Belt Tensioner is a pulley mounted to either a spring mechanism or to an adjustable pivot point that is used to keep constant tension on your serpentine belt. That is the big long belt in the front of your engine.

The tensioner rides on the outside surface of the belt to put pressure, or tension, on the belt and against the pulleys that drive things like the alternator, power steering, air conditioner, etc.

Keep in mind:

Tensioners usually come with pulleys; they are normally replaced together. Also, when replacing a tensioner, the drive belt usually must be removed. A mechanic may recommend replacing the belt as well.

How it's done:

Check for any noise in the engine (usually a squeaky or grinding noise).
Remove the drive belt(s) (in most cases).
Inspect drive belt pulleys.
Check the drive belt tensioner.
Remove and replace the tensioner if faulty.
Start car to see if noise is gone.

Our recommendation:

Your drive belt tensioner should always be inspected when your drive belt is serviced. During routine maintenance and inspection, your drive belt system should be reviewed to make sure that all the components are in working order. The drive belt tensioner will usually last longer than the drive belts, so as long as your tensioner is inspected or replaced when your drive belts are, your belt system should remain in good shape.

What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Drive Belt Tensioner?

Unusual noise (squeaky or grinding sound) every time you start the engine.

How important is this service?

The air conditioning, power steering, and alternator in your vehicle are given power through the drive belt. The belt is attached to both the crankshaft and these systems, and transfers power from the engine to drive each of these components. The drive belt tensioner is responsible for keeping the tension in the drive belt, which allows it to continue moving and transferring power. When the drive belt tensioner fails, the tension in the drive belt will begin to diminish, and the vehicle will not operate as well.

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David

37 years of experience

195 reviews

David

37 years of experience

by Pat

Ford Thunderbird V8-5.8L - labor - Azusa, California

This was David's fourth visit to help me with a rather large "To Do" list on my Tbird. The project this time was to install a cooling fan in front of the AC condenser. He had told me on another visit what size to order. When I rec'd it, I said to myself, "No way is this gonna fit." David shows up and he says, "Piece of cake." He pulls the radiator, grinds off a little hidden sheet metal, and adjusts the tabs holding the condenser. When he's finished, it looks like a factory install. The guy is amazing! We're already planning item #18 on the list. Generator to alternator conversion. Another "Piece of cake".

Robert

19 years of experience

68 reviews

Robert

19 years of experience

by Rom

Ford Thunderbird V8-6.4L - Starter Relay - Surprise, Arizona

Diagnosed the problem right away.

Brian

24 years of experience

818 reviews

Brian

24 years of experience

by David

Ford Thunderbird V8-6.4L - Car is making a noise - Jacksonville, Florida

Great, as always

Christopher

6 years of experience

11 reviews

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Christopher

6 years of experience

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by Linda

Ford Thunderbird V8-3.9L - Ignition Coil - Sacramento, California

Chris was on time and did a great job diagnosing the problems and fixing my car.

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