How Often Should You Replace Your Timing Belt?

How Often Should You Replace Your Timing Belt?

Many vehicle owners commonly have timing belt issues, and they require immediate and efficient attention due to the potential long-term impact they can have on your engine, valves, or pistons. Luckily, there’s no reason to wait until a serious issue happens for you to regularly maintain and replace the timing belt in your vehicle. While preventative timing belt replacements normally come in at a cost of under $900, replacing a broken belt can be double or triple that cost if additional damage has been done.

If not taken care of, timing belt issues can become a major cost, so it’s extremely important to know what exactly your timing belt does in terms of function and what the common standards are when it comes to maintenance and replacement. Read on to learn more about how the timing belt in your vehicle works and what some key steps are for you to maintain it.

Timing Belt Function

The function of a timing belt is to control the rotation of your vehicle’s camshaft and crankshaft gears. The camshaft and crankshaft work together during the combustion cycle of your vehicle (the sequence of intake, compression, power, and exhaust) so it’s extremely important that the camshaft and crankshaft are in harmony with one another. Another function of the timing belt is to control the opening and closing of the valves that allow air and gas both into and out of the combustion chamber in your engine.

Timing Belt Composition

A timing belt is normally made from rubber or neoprene and is composed of strong fibers or steel which runs the length of the belt. They are strong and durable in function, similar to a tire, however, they are not invincible and do require maintenance. Only becoming the norm for more modern vehicles in recent decades, timing belts took the primary place of their forebearer, timing chains, for several different reasons.

Timing Belt vs Timing Chains

Timing belts came on the scene around the 1960s and quickly became the preferred system for car manufacturers due to the fact that it’s a lighter and quieter option for vehicles with the same function. Recently however with general design improvements, the timing chain has been making a comeback, with many cars now opting for this system. The replacement timeline for a timing belt and chain is different, with a chain being able to last longer between replacement periods. Because of this, it’s important to make sure you have the detailed specifications for your vehicle around replacement periods and abide by the specific timelines recommended by the manufacturer.

Signs Your Belt Might Need Replacing

One of the best maintenance tips we can give you is to invest in a vehicle repair manual. This manual is different than an owner’s manual because it includes procedures for specific vehicle repairs and how to make minor repairs. You can get these manuals either online or even rent them out at auto parts stores. For timing belt repairs, your vehicle repair manual should list the timing belt access point; however, it’s important to note that many vehicles place timing belts in locations that are not visually accessible. If this is the case for your vehicle, it’s always a good idea to let a professionally trained technician do the inspection. If you are able to visually inspect your timing belt, a few key things to look for are:

• The belt should be taut with only ¼ inch to ½ inch give when pressed down.
• The belt should be smooth and flat
• The belt should be free of cracks, peeling, and should show no signs of fraying
• The belt should not be missing any teeth
• If the belt has been contaminated by a coolant or oil leak, it’s time to replace it.

When to Replace Your Timing Belt

As previously mentioned, the timeline for replacing your timing belt varies widely based on your individual vehicle specifications. There are some general warning signs however that you should keep an eye out for which might be indicating that it’s time for a replacement. Make sure you keep an eye out for the following red flags:

• Overheating
• Increased shaking or vibration
• Issues with starting your vehicle
• Decreased engine power
• Check Engine Lights
• Leaking Oil
• Strange ticking noises coming from your engine

If you catch your issue early, then you will likely only have to deal with the cost of a replacement belt. However, if you wait too long, you might be dealing with other damage to your engine or valves caused by your faulty belt, so be sure to get any issues checked out quickly and efficiently.

Timing Belt Replacement & More Auto Repairs

If you’re searching for a reputable and skilled technician to do your timing belt replacement, or for any other vehicle maintenance service, give us a call today at Fred’s Auto Repair. Our wonderful staff will work with you to ensure your vehicle is well taken care of and that you have professional maintenance and repair done at a reasonable cost. Get in touch and book your appointment in Briarcliff Manor or Shrub Oak today!