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When it comes to getting your timing belt replaced, most car owners often shy away and try to postpone the task because it’s on the expensive end in terms of repair and maintenance. Avoiding timing belt replacement can be a huge mistake, however, as failure has the potential to cause serious damage to your vehicle’s engine. A broken timing belt can render your vehicle inoperable, or even worse, bend your valves and pistons causing major damage to your engine. If you’re uncertain about the specific details of timing belt functions, how to know if there’s an issue, and how timing belt replacement works, we’ve compiled all of the answers to your questions below!
What is Your Car’s Timing Belt?
Air and gas are let in and out of your engine through valves operated by a camshaft. The crankshaft in your vehicle is what moves the pistons up and down. For your car to function correctly, these systems have to be synchronized exactly or else damage might be caused to the valves, pistons, or engine. The timing belt is there to make sure that the two systems remain synchronized and turning at the correct pace.
Timing Belts vs Timing Chains
In Pre 1970s, vehicles were built with timing chains, however, companies began to use belts instead as a means to reduce car weight and enhance fuel efficiency. In recent decades some companies have begun to switch back to chains given they have longer durability as long as regular maintenance is scheduled. A timing chain is a relatively maintenance-free part and will rarely need to be replaced, and the maintenance process for a chain, as opposed to a belt, is substantially different. Make sure you read up in your vehicle’s manual to ensure you know which part your car has so you can make sure you’re scheduling the proper amount of service.
How Often Should You Replace Your Timing Belt
It is incredibly important to regularly check your vehicle before timing belt issues occur as major malfunctions can result in serious engine damage. The timing of your vehicle’s belt replacement is highly dependent on the specific make and model, however, some generally recommended replacement timelines are after 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Make sure to check your vehicle manual to read up on the exact specifications for your belt’s replacement, and make sure you’re taking your car in for regular service so your timing belt can get checked.
Signs You Need a Timing Belt Replacement
Unfortunately, there aren’t many sure-fire signals that your timing belt needs to be replaced. Normally if there is a serious issue, it will be less of a gradual decline and more of a sudden occurrence. When your belt becomes worn down, there is more of a chance that it will slip completely which will cause misfires. If your timing belt fails, your engine will likely stop immediately or have a significant reduction in power. Alternatively, if your vehicle has a chain rather than a belt, you might hear a significant amount of noise if it becomes loose, and even a loud crack if it breaks. To prevent belt slippage, make sure you’re replacing the part as per the recommended guidelines of your vehicle manual.
What Kind of Damage Can a Break Cause?
The damage a broken timing belt can cause is highly dependent on the type of engine your vehicle has. If your engine is an interference one, one of the functions of the timing belt is that it will keep the valves and pistons from smashing into each other. In the case of a snapped belt, damage can be caused through bending the valves, disrupting the cylinder head or camshaft, or damage might also be caused to the piston or cylinder wall.
If your engine is a non-interference type, then pistons or valves won’t crash into one another if the timing belt breaks because the two aren’t close enough together. Because of this, it’s unlikely there will be extensive damage to the engine, however, you will definitely need to have your vehicle towed into a shop for maintenance and repair services.
How Much Does Timing Belt Replacement Cost?
Replacing a timing belt can often be a challenging and labor-intensive job for most car engines. Additionally, a break likely also means that additional parts like the tensioner, water pump, or idler arm might also need to be replaced. To ensure other parts won’t also need replacing, preventative maintenance and getting regular checks on your vehicle are key. Replacing a timing belt on its own is manageable, but if the break has caused other parts to be damaged then the costs can really add up. Unfortunately, timing belts can’t be regularly inspected by the average vehicle owner as most belts are covered and hidden behind other engine parts which obstruct the view. The best way to maintain your car’s belt is through regular and professional maintenance.
Finding a Good Auto-Repair Service
In order to make sure you’re getting your car serviced by top-quality technicians, we have a few tips for you when it comes to finding a great service. Make sure you call ahead of time to ensure that they can service your brand of car as many locations specialize in certain makes and models. Don’t forget to ask family and friends for recommendations, and make sure you’re checking out reviews and Consumer Reports online before making any firm commitments.
If you’re searching for top-quality timing belt replacement in your area, make sure to check out Fred’s Auto Repair. Our highly trained and professional technicians will support you in any vehicle repair needs you might have, and we even have partnerships with local businesses to ensure you’re well taken care of during any waiting times there might be. From air conditioner maintenance to car battery replacement to break changes, we are here to help you through any issues you might be having with your vehicle. Schedule your appointment today and let us take care of all your auto repair needs!
