Is an 8 year old serpentine belt still good?

[ghunt81]

I have a Motorcraft serpentine belt that I bought approximately 7-8 years ago (date on the packaging is 2017), it's been hanging up in my garage this whole time in a spot where sunlight never hits it. Any chance this belt is still OK to use?

 

[Dino Dino Bambino]

Check if It has any cracks on the ribs. If there aren't any it'll be fine.

 

[GriffX]

I have still the first running. You will hear some abnormal noise due to the bends from the package but it will disappear after some miles. BTW my oldest still running belt is from 2001, a Contitec. It depends how much load is on it. My supercharger belt has to be replaced every 3-4 years.

 

[MADGT]

Ha, funny I have one too hanging in my garage ...still looks new.

 

[JC SSP]

Put the belt on and see/hear how it preforms.

There are belt dressing & conditioners from several name brand vendors. I have used WD-40 in the past too...

I always use Goodyear Gator back/Continental belts and they hold up well under N/A use.

 

[GriffX]

I always use Goodyear Gator back/Continental belts and they hold up well under N/A use.

My supercharger has eaten up the Gaterback in no time, so not for heavy load usable.

 

[JC SSP]

Yeah I have heard that before that’s why I mentioned N/A.

Green Gates belts are what I have seen on S/C.

 

[Kev555]

Serpentine belts are supposed to last up to 10 years or 100,000 miles on a lot of standard vehicles. I've found Gates to be one of the best aftermarket belts.