So 2 days ago my AC just up and quit working. I figured my system needs a recharge and take a look only to find that my accessory belt is gone. Just up and gone. It must have broken and fallen onto the road somewhere. My question is this: Is it hard to replace on my own (mildly skilled as auto tech) and if not do you know how much a shop normally charges to do this? Thanks so much! I need my AC back when the heat index is 110 and I have a black b5! THANKS!!

 

Not too bad of a diy. It probably just got old and shredded off. Oil leaking down on belts can rapidly shorten their life too, just something to keep in mind and maybe look for while your in there.

 

The hardest part is fitting your hands down there between the radiator and the belt pulleys. If you can get your hands in, its an easy job. Mine popped not long ago but was due to the tensioner failing. I had to replace the tensioner which is tough to wiggle out of that small space but I was able to do it. If your tensioner still works, you just have to wrap the belt which isn't bad. There is a picture of how its wrapped here:
http://www.audiworld.com/tech/eng39.shtml



BTW, I have a new accessory belt for sale. I replaced mine a few months ago and then just finished a timing belt job. The kit comes with a new accessory belt which I didn't need. It is this here:

http://www.ecstuning.com/Audi-B5_A4-.../Timing/ES582/

$20 shipped to you if you'd like it.