serpentine belt

[/ˈsɜːrpənˌtaɪn bɛlt/]
nounpl: serpentine belts
correia serpentina
1. A long, continuous rubber belt in an engine that drives multiple accessories such as the alternator, power steering pump, water pump, and air conditioning compressor through a single serpentine path
The mechanic replaced the serpentine belt because it was cracked and worn.
O mecânico substituiu a correia serpentina porque estava rachada e desgastada.
2. Also called a serpentine drive belt or multi-rib belt; characterized by its snake-like winding path around various engine pulleys
A serpentine belt typically lasts between 3 to 5 years or 25,000 to 70,000 miles.
Uma correia serpentina normalmente dura entre 3 a 5 anos ou 25.000 a 70.000 milhas.
The serpentine belt is a critical component in modern automotive maintenance. In Brazil, regular belt inspection is part of routine vehicle maintenance culture. In the USA, replacing a serpentine belt is a common DIY or mechanic task, often performed during routine service. The term reflects the belt's distinctive winding pattern resembling a serpent, making it easily recognizable to mechanics and car enthusiasts in both English and Portuguese-speaking countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
serpentine drive beltmulti-rib beltaccessory beltpoly-V belt

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
correia serpentina
Standard term used across Brazil for this automotive component
São Paulo
correia serpentina
Common usage in automotive repair shops
Rio de Janeiro
correia serpentina
Standard automotive terminology
Portugal
correia serpentina
Same term used, though less common in older vehicles

Related Words

alternatorpulleywater pumpair conditioning compressorpower steering pumpengine accessoriesbelt tension
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →