Note: This article contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my research and content. Read my full affiliate disclosure here.
If you own a 2009-2018 Ram 1500, the serpentine belt is a small part that has an outsized effect on daily reliability. A worn or improperly fitted belt can cause squeal, accessory failures, or a sudden breakdown. This guide covers seven shortlisted serpentine belts selected for their durability and accurate fitment to the Ram 1500 range, along with the practical factors that determine long-term performance. You will get clear, vehicle-specific guidance on what matters when replacing the belt, how fit and compound affect noise and wear, and which installation considerations you should anticipate. Read on for the evaluation criteria and actionable tips before you pick a replacement.
Looking for other parts? See all Ram 1500 parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | A-Premium Serpentine Belt Drive Kit with Tensioner & Idler Pulley for Ram 1500 5.7L |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Gates Complete Serpentine Belt Drive Component Kit |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Bando USA 6PK2020 Serpentine Belt |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Bando USA 6PK2060 Serpentine Belt |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Gates Complete Serpentine Belt Drive Component Kit for Ram 1500 5.7L V8 (2013–2020) |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | A-Premium Serpentine Belt Drive Kit with Tensioner and Idler Pulley |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Riyhch Serpentine Belt Tensioner and Idler Pulley Kit for Ram 1500 5.7L (2013-2022) |  |
A-Premium Serpentine Belt Drive Kit with Tensioner & Idler Pulley for Ram 1500 5.7L
| Compatibility | Ram 1500 2013-2022, 1500 Classic 2019-2022 V8 5.7L OHV |
|---|---|
| Kit contents | Serpentine belt, belt tensioner, idler pulley |
| Brand | A-Premium |
| Manufacturer part number | APTBK187 |
This A-Premium kit replaces the serpentine belt and two critical hardware pieces—belt tensioner and idler pulley—so you can refresh the front accessory drive in a single job. It is intended for Ram 1500 5.7L OHV V8 trucks and typically used when the belt shows wear, the tensioner starts to rattle, or during a water pump or front-end service. The kit matches factory routing and arrives ready to install, which most users report cuts install time to under an hour. Practical benefits include quieter operation, restored belt tension, and lower risk of belt slip that can affect charging and cooling. Reviewers generally find fit and quality comparable to factory replacements, though one noted the tensioner pulley face could be slightly wider. The product comes with a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee, but be sure to verify your exact engine configuration before ordering since this kit fits OHV engines only.
Best for: Buyers who want a balanced, practical replacement kit that refreshes the entire serpentine drive in one purchase and prioritizes a straightforward, time-saving install.
Less Ideal for: People seeking OEM-branded parts or those who need parts for non-OHV Ram 1500 engines should consider alternatives tailored to their exact engine configuration.
- Complete kit includes belt, tensioner, and idler pulley for a one-stop replacement
- Designed to match factory routing and simplify installation
- Reported fit and function closely match factory-quality parts
- Helps reduce belt noise and restore proper accessory drive tension
- One report that the tensioner pulley face is marginally narrower than ideal
Verdict: If you want a convenient, all-in-one replacement that restores belt tension and reduces front-end drive noise on a Ram 1500 5.7L OHV, this kit delivers a practical, near-factory solution.
Gates Complete Serpentine Belt Drive Component Kit
| Item Type Name | Complete Serpentine Kit |
|---|---|
| Included Components | Belt, tensioner, idler pulley (as required per system) |
| Material Type | High-quality material meeting or exceeding OEM standards |
| Compatible Devices | Car |
This Gates Complete Serpentine Kit supplies a replacement multi-rib belt plus the tensioner and idler pulley components commonly replaced when servicing a worn accessory drive. It is designed for technicians and owners doing alternator, A/C compressor, water pump, or power steering jobs where the belt is removed; the kit simplifies parts sourcing and reduces the chance of a comeback by replacing worn supporting parts at the same time. The belt uses premium EPDM construction and Gates says the components meet or exceed factory fit and function, so installation and routing match factory layouts. Practical benefits include a single-purchase solution, installation instructions, and hardware for an efficient repair. Limitations to note: kit contents vary by application so it may not include every part pictured, and a few users have reported isolated tensioner failures, so inspect the tensioner after installation and test under load before long trips.
Best for: Someone performing maintenance or repairs on a 2009–2018 Ram 1500 who wants a single, factory-quality kit to restore the accessory drive when replacing the belt or doing related front-end repairs.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who prefer sourcing individual upgraded performance tensioners or pulleys separately for a high-load or heavily modified engine build should consider buying specialized components instead.
- Includes belt, tensioner, and idler components in one package for convenient, time-saving repairs
- Belt made from premium EPDM material formulated to meet or exceed factory standards
- Designed to match factory fit and routing so installation is straightforward
- Includes installation instructions and necessary hardware to streamline the job
- Kit contents can vary by vehicle application so some parts pictured may not be included
- A small number of users reported tensioner failures necessitating inspection or replacement
Verdict: Buy this kit to get a ready-to-install, factory-quality serpentine belt and supporting components that simplify and complete front-end accessory repairs on your Ram 1500.
Bando USA 6PK2020 Serpentine Belt
| Part Number | 6PK2020 |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Rubber (EPDM) |
| Belt Style | Serpentine Belt |
| Included Components | 1 serpentine belt |
The Bando USA 6PK2020 is a direct-fit replacement serpentine belt built to factory-quality standards and intended for standard accessory drive systems. It is made from EPDM rubber with proprietary run-quiet processing and reinforced tensile cords to resist stretching under load. Typical use is straightforward: install as a one-to-one replacement when the original belt shows wear, cracking, or noise. In real-world use this belt is notable for quiet operation and a precise rib profile that reduces slipping and squeal compared with some aftermarket options. Buyers will appreciate consistent fitment and the OEM-level rib grinding that helps alignment on tensioners and pulleys. The belt is a single-count item intended for routine service and not a performance upgrade, so expect factory-level durability rather than extended heavy-duty lifespans under extreme towing or high-performance tuning. It comes from a long-established manufacturer with broad OEM experience, which translates to predictable fit and function on supported vehicles like the Ram 1500.
Best for: Someone who wants a dependable, factory-quality replacement belt for routine maintenance and values quiet operation and accurate fitment for a Ram 1500 from the 2009–2018 era.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need an upgraded heavy-duty belt for regular high-torque towing, racing, or extensively modified engines should consider performance-focused options instead.
- Manufactured from EPDM rubber for improved heat resistance and wear life
- Precision-ground ribs and run-quiet technology reduce squeal and slip
- Reinforced tensile cords resist stretching under normal loads
- Designed to match factory rib profile for reliable fit and alignment
- Designed as a factory replacement rather than a heavy-duty or high-performance belt
Verdict: Choose the Bando 6PK2020 when you want a quiet, OEM-quality replacement belt that fits and performs like the factory unit on a Ram 1500.
Bando USA 6PK2060 Serpentine Belt
| Part Number | 6PK2060 |
|---|---|
| Belt Style | Serpentine Belt |
| Material Type | Rubber |
| Rib Count | 6 Ribs |
The Bando USA 6PK2060 is a replacement 6-rib serpentine belt manufactured from EPDM rubber and precision ground to match factory rib profiles. It is intended as a direct-fit replacement for vehicles that use the 6PK2060 length and rib count and is typically used when replacing a worn or broken drive belt during routine maintenance. Notable features include high-tensile cords to resist stretching, two-stage rib grinding for accurate fit, and materials chosen for heat and wear resistance. For everyday driving the belt delivers factory-like durability and quiet operation, and it is the same belt Bando supplies to many OEMs which helps ensure consistent fit and performance. Important limitations are fitment sensitivity and the need to confirm exact belt number for your Ram 1500 model and year since several closely sized belts exist; buyers should verify the 6PK2060 is the specified belt for their engine configuration before installing.
Best for: A budget-focused buyer who wants a factory-quality replacement belt that performs like the original and keeps maintenance costs low on their Ram 1500 between 2009 and 2018.
Less Ideal for: Anyone who cannot confirm the correct belt part number for their specific Ram 1500 engine or who prefers to buy from vehicle-specific branded parts programs.
- Manufactured from EPDM rubber for improved heat and wear resistance
- Precision-ground ribs to match factory rib profile for reliable pulley engagement
- High-tensile cords resist stretching under load
- Produced by a large OEM supplier with established quality standards
- Fit depends strictly on matching the exact part number so wrong-size deliveries will not work
Verdict: If your 2009–2018 Ram 1500 requires a 6PK2060 belt, this Bando unit is a cost-conscious way to get factory-level construction and reliable replacement performance.
Gates Complete Serpentine Belt Drive Component Kit for Ram 1500 5.7L V8 (2013–2020)
| Compatible vehicles | Ram 1500 5.7L V8 2013-2020 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Gates |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 4020080713 |
| ASIN | B0DQJ6NQ6T |
This Gates complete serpentine belt drive kit supplies a direct replacement belt, tensioner and idler pulley sized for Ram 1500 5.7L V8 engines from 2013 through 2020. It is intended for routine replacement during maintenance or when a worn belt or failed tensioner causes noise, slipping, or accessory drive issues. The kit uses factory-quality components and includes the hardware and original packaging so installers get matching parts that fit the factory mounting points. In practice that means a straightforward swap with no modification and a lower chance of early failure compared with piecing together mismatched parts. The main limitations are that the kit is vehicle-specific and only covers the belt drive components shown, so any other failing accessories must be sourced separately. Also the listing notes manufacturer identity and fitment codes so double-check exact engine and year before ordering. For buyers valuing straightforward, reliable replacements this kit simplifies the job and reduces troubleshooting after installation.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize a reliable, factory-quality replacement with minimal fuss and want one matched kit to restore the accessory drive on their Hemi-powered Ram.
Less Ideal for: Customers looking for a universal belt or a kit that covers additional engine accessories or pulleys not shown in the listing should look elsewhere.
- Complete kit includes belt, tensioner and idler pulley for a single coordinated replacement
- Factory-quality Gates components that match factory mounting points for easier installation
- Arrives with original packaging and hardware so installers have required parts for a direct swap
- Fits only the listed Ram 1500 5.7L V8 model years and does not cover other engine accessories
Verdict: Choose this Gates complete kit when you want a straightforward, factory-quality replacement set to restore the serpentine drive on a 5.7L Ram 1500 quickly and reliably.
A-Premium Serpentine Belt Drive Kit with Tensioner and Idler Pulley
| Brand | A-Premium |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer Part Number | APTBK185 |
| Fitment | Select Ram 1500/2500/3500/4500/5500 OHV V8 5.7L/6.4L (see listing) |
| Kit Parts Included | Serpentine belt, belt tensioner, idler pulley |
This A-Premium kit supplies the three parts you most often replace together: the serpentine belt, belt tensioner, and idler pulley. It is sold as a vehicle-specific kit for Ram trucks with OHV V8 5.7L and 6.4L engines from model years listed in the fitment. Typical use is a direct replacement during routine belt service or when a worn belt or noisy pulley/tensioner is diagnosed. Buyers report the pulleys bolt up without modification and the belt fits as expected, so installation should be straightforward for a DIYer or mechanic. The included tensioner and idler remove the guesswork of matching separate parts and help restore proper belt tension and routing, which reduces squeal and improves accessory drive function. Some reviewers flagged occasional fitment concerns, so confirming exact engine configuration before ordering is important. The kit comes with a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee from the brand, offering some peace of mind for buyers focused on durability and post-sale support.
Best for: Buyers who want a budget-friendly, vehicle-specific replacement that bundles the belt and common wear pulleys to simplify a single maintenance job and reduce future belt-related noise or failures.
Less Ideal for: If you prefer factory-branded parts or need an exact OEM match with extended manufacturer-backed warranty, consider choosing a branded dealer part instead.
- Complete kit includes belt, tensioner, and idler pulley for a single purchase and install
- Designed for specific Ram OHV V8 fitments so parts match factory routing and mounting points
- Many customers report good fit and solid build quality for the price
- Simplifies maintenance by replacing multiple wear items at once
- Some buyers reported occasional fitment issues so double-check vehicle details before ordering
- Not covered: specific long-term durability data beyond the one-year guarantee
Verdict: A practical, budget-conscious kit that bundles the belt, tensioner, and idler into a vehicle-specific replacement to simplify serpentine system repairs on Ram V8 trucks.
Riyhch Serpentine Belt Tensioner and Idler Pulley Kit for Ram 1500 5.7L (2013-2022)
| Fitment | Ram 1500/1500 Classic 2013-2022 (5.7L V8 OHV only) |
|---|---|
| Included components | Tensioner assembly ×1, Idler pulley ×1, Serpentine belt ×1 |
| Brand | Riyhch |
| Part numbers referenced | 38323, 305377, 38018, 06A903315D and others |
This kit supplies everything needed to replace a worn serpentine drive on Ram 1500 5.7L OHV engines: a tensioner assembly, an idler pulley, and a replacement belt. It is intended as a direct replacement for the factory components and is typically used when the original belt, pulley, or tensioner shows wear, noise, or loss of proper tension. Buyers will appreciate that the kit groups three parts so you can change the whole drive loop at once rather than swapping pieces individually. The product description and user feedback indicate good fit for many model years and generally solid durability under normal driving. However some buyers reported fitment issues or a belt that was too short, so careful verification of engine type and year is important before ordering. This kit is a practical option if you prefer replacing the entire belt system in one service visit, but if you require guaranteed perfect fit for a specific submodel or expect OEM-level finish, you should confirm part numbers and compare against the vehicle’s original hardware.
Best for: Buyers who want a low-risk, bundled replacement to refresh their truck’s belt drive in a single service session and prefer the convenience of replacing all related parts at once.
Less Ideal for: Those needing an exact factory-identical component finish or owners who have a non-OHV variant or a model year/configuration outside the listed 2013–2022 5.7L OHV scope should look elsewhere.
- Includes tensioner, idler pulley, and serpentine belt for a one-stop replacement
- Designed to match common replacement part numbers used on Ram 1500 5.7L OHV engines
- Multiple customers report straightforward installation and good fit on compatible trucks
- Saves time versus sourcing individual components separately
- Some reviewers experienced fitment or sizing problems with the belt or pulley
- Not guaranteed to match factory finish or tolerances in every case
Verdict: If you want a convenient kit to replace the serpentine belt system on a 5.7L OHV Ram 1500 and minimize shop time, this all-in-one set makes the job easier.
Choosing the Right 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Serpentine Belt: Key Factors to Consider
Correct Size and Rib Count
Getting the exact length and rib profile is critical because a mismatched belt either will not fit or will put excess strain on accessories. Even small length differences change belt tension and can accelerate wear on the alternator, water pump, and tensioner.
When choosing for a 2009-2018 Ram 1500, confirm the rib count and exact length against your engine variant and accessory layout. If you are using the truck with factory accessories, prioritize a belt that lists explicit fitment for the Ram 1500 years covered. Accurate size removes guesswork during installation and reduces the risk of premature failure.
Compound and Reinforcement
The rubber compound and internal reinforcement cords determine stretch resistance and longevity. Belts with robust polyester or aramid cords resist elongation better than those with cheaper fibers, preserving correct tension over time.
For Ram 1500 use that includes towing or repeated highway driving, select belts advertised as high-tensile or with reinforced cores. These belts maintain tension longer, lowering the chance of slippage and the need for early replacement.
Heat and Oil Resistance
Under-hood temperatures and exposure to oil or coolant leaks will degrade many standard compounds. Heat-resistant formulations and protective outer layers delay cracking and glazing.
If you operate your Ram 1500 in hot climates or frequently tow heavy loads, choose belts rated for high-temperature service and resistant to oil contamination. That reduces visible wear signs and extends service intervals.
Noise and Rib Design
Squeal and chirp often point to poor rib alignment, glazing, or an incompatible compound. Rib geometry, micro-groove patterns, and compound softness all affect how smoothly the belt runs over pulleys.
If low noise is a priority, look for belts with multi-rib profiles that match the factory pulleys and descriptions that note low-squeal operation. Properly matched ribs and a slightly more flexible compound can reduce startup and idle noise without sacrificing durability.
Compatibility With Tensioner and Accessories
The belt works as a system with the tensioner, idler pulleys, and accessories. If the tensioner is worn or the idler bearings have play, even a new belt will show premature wear or generate noise.
Confirm the belt is intended for use with the original tensioner setup on the 2009-2018 Ram 1500. If the truck has high mileage, consider inspecting or replacing the tensioner and idlers when changing the belt to secure correct tension and alignment.
Ease of Identification and Installation
Belts that include clear size markings, an installation diagram, or a belt routing reference reduce installation errors and time in the garage. Ambiguous packaging increases the chance of returning parts or misrouting the belt, which risks accessory damage.
Choose options with explicit vehicle fitment notes and clear rib-count markings. If you plan to perform the serpentine belt replacement yourself, favor belts that come with a routing diagram or use the factory routing stamped on the engine bay for guidance.
When To Replace the Serpentine Belt
Regular visual inspection is the simplest way to time a replacement. Look for cracking across the ribs, frayed edges, visible cords, or glazing on the rib faces. These wear signs often precede failure and can appear even when mileage is moderate.
Unusual noises such as persistent squeal during startup or under load, intermittent accessory loss, or visible wobble on the belt path indicate it is time to change the belt or related tension components. For the 2009-2018 Ram 1500, perform a visual check during oil changes and inspect the belt routing and condition every 12 months or sooner if symptoms appear.
- Cracking, chunks missing from ribs, and exposed reinforcement cords are immediate replacement indicators
- Squeal that persists after checking tension usually signals compound glazing or rib wear
- If the belt appears glazed and smooth, it may slip under load despite looking intact
Checking the Tensioner and Pulleys
A new belt is only as good as the system it runs on. When replacing the serpentine belt, inspect the tensioner for smooth travel and adequate spring resistance. A weak tensioner will allow too much belt play and accelerate wear.
Spin idler and accessory pulleys by hand to detect rough bearings or play. Replace any pulley that feels rough or has side-to-side movement before installing a new belt to avoid rapid re-wear.
- Check tensioner travel and return speed during engine off inspection
- Listen for grinding or roughness when spinning pulleys by hand
- Confirm pulley grooves are clean and free of oil or debris
Basic Steps for How To Replace Serpentine Belt
Replacing the belt on a 2009-2018 Ram 1500 typically requires releasing the tensioner to remove the old belt and routing the new belt following the factory path. Always consult a routing diagram before removal and note the belt orientation and rib alignment.
Use the correct tool for the tensioner to avoid damaging the bolt or spring. After installing the new belt, double-check rib seating in every pulley and start the engine briefly to observe tracking and listen for noise. Reinspect after a short test drive.
- Secure the vehicle and disconnect the battery if you will work near electrical components
- Use a belt routing diagram and verify rib-to-groove engagement before running the engine
- After installation, recheck tension and pulley alignment following a short drive
Interpreting Serpentine Belt Symptoms
Different symptoms point to different root causes. A high-pitched squeal that occurs only at cold start often indicates glazing or slight misalignment. Constant squeal under load suggests tension loss or a contaminated belt surface.
If accessories like the alternator or power steering intermittently fail, the belt may be slipping. Visual signs combined with performance symptoms narrow down whether the belt itself or related components such as the tensioner and pulleys need attention.
- Cold-start squeal: often glazing or initial misalignment
- Squeal under load: check tensioner and belt contamination
- Intermittent accessory loss: look for belt slip and worn ribs
Keeping the System Clean and Aligned
Contaminants shorten belt life. Wipe away oil, coolant, and road grime from the belt path and pulley grooves when you change the belt. Address any leaks before installing a new belt to avoid early degradation.
Ensure accessory pulleys and idlers are aligned. Misalignment forces the belt to track incorrectly, promoting edge wear and glazing. Small alignment shims or replacing bent brackets often fixes chronic tracking issues.
- Clean pulley grooves with a non-solvent cloth before installing a new belt
- Repair any leaks that could contaminate a replacement belt
- Verify pulley alignment visually and with a straightedge where possible
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Ram 1500 configuration to see the most relevant Serpentine Belts recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2009-2018 Ram 1500 Serpentine Belt
We focused exclusively on options compatible with the 2009-2018 Ram 1500 and evaluated candidates against criteria that matter to owners who need a reliable replacement. Primary evaluation factors included material compound and reinforcement, which determine stretch resistance and expected service life; dimensional accuracy and fit, ensuring correct rib profile and length for direct installation; resistance to oil and heat, because under-hood contaminants and high operating temperatures shorten belt life; and noise performance, since belt composition and rib design influence squeal during startup and under load. We also considered packaging and included instructions, and the availability of fitment data such as rib count and exact length, which simplifies repair. Products were excluded if fitment data was ambiguous, if the belt lacked clear size specification for the Ram 1500 application, or if no evidence of heat- or oil-resistant compound was shown. This approach prioritizes real-world durability and straightforward installation for Ram 1500 owners.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How often should I inspect the serpentine belt on my 2009-2018 Ram 1500?
Inspect the belt visually at least once a year and during scheduled maintenance. If you tow frequently or drive in hot conditions, check it more often for cracking or glazing.
Can I replace the serpentine belt myself on a Ram 1500?
Many owners can perform the replacement with basic hand tools and the correct tensioner tool. Follow a routing diagram, confirm fitment, and inspect pulleys and the tensioner during the job.
What does a serpentine belt squeal usually mean?
A squeal often points to glazing, contamination, or incorrect tension. It can also result from a weak tensioner or misaligned pulleys. Diagnose by checking belt condition and system alignment.
Should I replace the tensioner when I change the belt?
It depends on condition. If the tensioner shows reduced spring action, excessive travel, or noisy bearings, replace it at the same time to ensure proper tension and avoid repeat belt wear.
How do I find the correct serpentine belt size for my Ram 1500?
Use the vehicle year, engine code, and accessory layout to look up exact rib count and length. Confirm the size against factory specifications or a belt diagram before ordering a replacement.
What are common wear signs to watch for?
Watch for cracks across ribs, frayed edges, exposed cords, glazing, and uneven wear. Any of these signs indicate the belt should be replaced to avoid accessory failure.
Final Verdict
Prioritize exact fitment, material quality, and system condition when selecting a replacement belt for a 2009-2018 Ram 1500. A correctly sized belt with durable reinforcement and appropriate heat and oil resistance will reduce noise and extend service life. Before installation, inspect the tensioner and pulleys and address any leaks or alignment issues to protect the new belt. Focus on these tradeoffs and you will choose a solution that balances quiet operation and long-term reliability.
Explore More:
- Check out all Ram 1500 parts & accessories
- Explore Serpentine Belts Maintenance & Repair Guides
- Explore Engine
- Browse all Auto Parts
