A V-belt runs off a crank and pulley and typically travels between one or two engine accessories. Older cars often have several V-belts used for power steering, air conditioning, and other operating essentials. V-belts can be more difficult to change than serpentine belts.

V-belts are commonly used in industrial applications because of their relative low cost, ease of installation, and wide range of sizes. The V-shape makes it easier to keep fast-moving belts in sheave grooves than it is to keep a flat belt on a pulley.

They solved the slippage and alignment problem. It is now the basic belt for power transmission. They provide the best combination of traction, speed of movement, load of the bearings, and long service life.