Dryer Belt Replacement: Fix Your Dryer Without Replacing It

When your dryer runs but doesn’t spin, the most common culprit is a broken dryer belt, a rubber loop that connects the motor to the drum, making it turn during the cycle. Also known as a drum drive belt, it’s one of the most worn-out parts in a clothes dryer—and replacing it usually costs less than a new appliance. You don’t need to buy a new dryer just because the drum stopped turning. Most dryers last 10 to 13 years, and a worn belt is often the first thing to go.

Think of the dryer belt, a flexible, reinforced rubber strap that transfers power from the motor to the drum like a bicycle chain. If it snaps, the pedals spin but the wheels don’t move. Same with your dryer: the motor hums, the heater works, but the drum stays still. You might also hear a squealing noise or notice clothes taking way longer to dry because they’re not tumbling. A dryer drum, the large cylindrical compartment where clothes tumble during the cycle that doesn’t rotate is almost always tied to belt failure—not the motor, not the timer, and not the heating element.

Replacing the belt isn’t hard if you’re comfortable using basic tools like a screwdriver and a wrench. Most dryers have access panels on the front or back, and the belt slides right off the drum and onto the motor pulley. You’ll also want to check the dryer idler pulley, a small wheel that keeps tension on the belt—if it’s cracked or wobbly, it’ll snap the new belt fast. And don’t forget the dryer rollers, the small wheels that support the drum and let it spin smoothly. If they’re worn out, your new belt will wear out too.

Cost-wise, a new dryer belt runs between $15 and $30. Labor from a pro might set you back $100–$150, but if you do it yourself, you’re looking at under an hour of work and a few tools. Many people replace the belt and then wonder why they waited so long—it’s one of the simplest, most cost-effective repairs you can make.

Before you start, unplug the dryer. Safety first. Then, take a photo of how the old belt is routed. That way, you won’t guess when putting the new one on. Most manufacturers list the belt part number inside the dryer’s cabinet or on the back panel. If you can’t find it, bring the old belt to a repair shop or match it online by your dryer’s model number.

Don’t assume your dryer is dead just because the drum stopped turning. A broken belt doesn’t mean your dryer is done for—it just means it’s time for a simple fix. Hundreds of homeowners save hundreds of dollars every year by replacing this one part. Below, you’ll find real repair guides, cost breakdowns, and step-by-step videos that show exactly how to do it right—no guesswork, no unnecessary replacements, just results.