The plastic guard that covers the bottom of the serpentie belt just broke on my 2005 R52S and has created a couple of minor nicks in the outer surface of the belt. Do I need to replace it?

I just finished a 15% alta pulley install and really do not want to have to go through that again!

 

I would change the belt ASAP....failure can result in the very least getting stuck on the side of the road...possible overheating, and other damage...if it snaps, it has been known to cause the tensioner to swing back and take a chunk out of the crank damper...resulting in the above, plus needing a new tension and crank damper...
belt is only $15-25, other options could set you back $1000 or more...
belt change can be pretty quick and easy....about a 15 min job! honest. thing that takes the most time is jacking the car up and taking off the wheel, and pulling the liner off!!
Now when you say outer surface...I would say if ANY of the rubber or cords show damage, change it. if just a scuff then watch it closely...but so cheap and easy to change....why chance it...the belt transfers tons of pressure and hp..it is amazing it is so small/narrow actually....

 

Yep, change it or be ready for a heavy repair bill if it snaps. Zippy is right....

 

I figured so I picked one up on the way home. Sounds like the change over is easy - I was dreading having to go through the pulley change sequence again. THanks

 

Thanks - done in 45 minutes last night. Way better than the 5 hours for the pullley! And now I have peace of mind.

 

Smart choice. Glad the belt swap went smooth.