Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Timing Belt

How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Timing Belt

Your timing belt is an essential component of your car, which regulates the function of your camshaft and crankshaft gears through a four-part process that results in precise valve timing. If your timing belt needs to be replaced, continuing to drive your vehicle without having it inspected by a professional could compromise other elements of your car such as your engine, water pump, and more.

Unfortunately, many drivers do not know the warning signs to look for when there is a problem within the timing belt. Consequently, the vehicle owner may need to invest in far more extensive repairs than anticipated. For this reason, it is important to educate yourself so that you never miss a clear indicator of a damaged timing belt.

At Fred’s Auto Service & Repair, we specialize in all kinds of auto services including timing belt replacements. Our team will approach your vehicle with precision, to ensure it is in top condition by the time you leave our shop. Keep reading to learn the primary signs to look for in a timing belt that is ready to be replaced.

Seven Signs of Timing Belt Damage

Mileage

On average, timing belts need to be replaced approximately every 80,000 miles. However, this number can vary depending on the vehicle and engine type. If you have reached 100,000 miles without changing your timing belt, you are almost guaranteed to be due for a replacement even if you are not experiencing any obvious problems.

The sound of ticking

If you notice a ticking sound coming from your vehicle, it is most likely coming from your timing belt. Along the belt are carefully positioned teeth that work to move the pulley across your gears in a smooth motion. If one or more of these teeth are missing, the entire system will become misaligned and cause friction that will result in a damaged belt. Therefore, if you notice the sound of ticking, we recommend taking your vehicle in for a timing belt replacement as soon as possible.

Presence of a leak

If there is oil or coolant leaking within your engine, it will undoubtedly soak your timing belt. If your timing belt is coated in liquid, it may start slipping along the pulley system that your engine relies on to work properly. Therefore, a leak is a serious cause for concern that requires an urgent timing belt replacement. If you can lift the timing belt cover yourself, check to make sure the belt does not appear to be wet.

Check engine light

If your check engine light comes on while driving, this could be a sign that your timing belt is overheating. If this is the case, the rubber material may begin to wear down and will be at risk of breaking. A broken timing belt will cause your car to stop abruptly, which could be extremely dangerous. No matter why your check engine light is on, it is always best to contact a professional when you have an engine-related issue.

Engine vibration

If your engine begins to vibrate excessively, it may be because your timing belt has come loose or is no longer aligned properly with your vehicle’s gears. The culprit here is usually the teeth that run along your timing belt, loosely clicking along the pulleys. While your vehicle may be able to run for some time after the vibration begins, it is best to replace your timing belt as soon as you can get to an auto repair shop.

Difficulty starting the engine

As previously mentioned, the presence of your timing belt is the difference between a car that starts and one that does not. If you are finding it difficult to start your engine or you are experiencing other engine misfire, this could be due to a malfunctioning timing belt. A compromised timing belt will affect your valve timing, which may cause mild engine difficulties before the system breaks down completely.

Your owner’s manual provides an expiration date

In many newer vehicles, the manufacturer will provide a timeline that indicates when they recommend replacing various parts. Check your owner’s manual. Here you may be able to find valuable information regarding your timing belt. For example, if the manufacturer recommends replacing it every 50,000 miles, it is best to trust this number rather than waiting for signs of damage. Timing belts are relatively inexpensive, costing less than $400 in most cases. This is far less than it would cost to replace your engine or other essential parts. To be safe, we always recommend following the suggested mileage outlined in your owner’s manual.

If you suspect there may be something wrong with your timing belt, the best way to diagnose the problem is by hiring a professional to inspect your vehicle. At Fred’s Auto Service & Repair, we are happy to replace your timing belt when the time comes. Contact us today to learn more about our services.