Fix It

The drive cycle is a process where the vehicle is driven from a cold start and operated for a specific period of time, and at certain speeds, in order to allow the powertrain control module, or PCM, to perform certain diagnostic procedures and gather performance data. In order to reset the process and start from the beginning of the drive cycle, a number of steps must be completed. Failure to follow the specific procedure for resetting the drive cycle can delay the programming and configuration of certain modules, as well as alter previously gathered diagnostic data.

Instructions

1

Fill the fuel tank at least 15 percent full, but no more than 85 percent full. Having the tank too low or completely full will prevent the PCM from properly completing the drive cycle.

2

Park the vehicle and turn off the engine. Turn the ignition on and connect a scan tool to the vehicle. Clear any existing diagnostic trouble codes from the PCMs memory.

3

Turn the ignition completely off and allow the vehicle to cool for at least eight hours. The engine and the vehicle must be at room temperature to ensure a cold start at the beginning of the drive cycle. This can take up to eight hours.

4

Start the engine and confirm that the malfunction indicator lamp, or MIL, is not illuminated. Immediately turn off all accessories, such as the air conditioner and blower fan. The vehicle is now ready to begin a fresh OBD-II drive cycle.

Knowing when to replace the drive belt on your car can save you thousands of dollars in repair costs. There is no "quick fix" should your drive belt break from too much wear and tear. Regularly check the belt to avoid getting stranded -- and monster repair bills. Serpentine belts, standard V-belts and "cogged" V-belts are the three main types used.

Serpentine Belt

Controlled by a belt tensioner or an idle pulley, the serpentine belt is also known as the "poly-V-belt." According to an article on the Engine Blox website, this belt was named from its flexible nature, allowing it to "snake" around pulleys. The belt is wide and can withstand higher tension than older belts, reducing stress on the engine and boosting gas mileage. A serpentine belt needs to be replaced every five years or 50,000 miles, according to AA1Car.com. Most new cars include a diagram under the hood that explains how to replace it.

Standard V-belt

The V-belt is a half inch wide. Narrower than the serpentine belt, it is typically found on older automobiles. Its tapered sides fit between pulleys or gears and it works best with light loads, since the flat base does not rotate gears precisely. A standard V-belt should be replaced every three years or 36,000 miles, and replacement costs roughly half the price of a serpentine belt, according to International Auto Repair.

Cogged V-belt

The cogged belt is similar to the standard V-belt, except that it has grooved base. These grooves allow a firm grip on gears and engine accessories, making the belt ideal for high-load applications. As does the standard V belt, the cogged belt should be replaced every three years or 36,000 miles.