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How to Maintain the Timing Belt of a Car?

May. 27, 2020

What is a timing belt?

The timing belt is a toothed rubber belt that helps the engine run smoothly by connecting the camshaft and crankshaft. The camshaft is a rotating shaft, which helps the correct opening and closing timing of the valves inside the engine. At the same time, the crankshaft helps the piston move up and down. Connect the camshaft to the crankshaft with a belt to keep the two assemblies in sync. In this way, the valve opens and closes at the correct time.

It is worth noting that not all cars have timing belts. Some have a timing chain (or in a few cases, a set of gears) instead. Engine valve manufacturer shares with you.

How did it break?

Timing belts often break due to lack of maintenance. The timing belt will wear out over time because it is made of rubber. When the engine is overheated, the belt will naturally lose its strength and texture, causing the belt to break. Therefore, the timing belt should be replaced according to the maintenance plan recommended by the manufacturer. This information is outlined in your car owner's manual.

Another cause of damage is stuck pumps, due to lack of maintenance of the cooling system. When the water pump gets stuck, it will stop the gear instantly, which will automatically cause the belt to break.

How do I know it needs to be replaced?

Some common signs indicating replacement are:

Dealer recommends replacement based on time and mileage

Water pump leak

The engine spins but does not start

When the belt becomes cold when starting, the timing tensioner will make a ticking sound, but it will disappear when the belt becomes hot

Timing tensioner leak

Engine misfire and unstable operation

Commercial Vehicle Engine Valve

How much does it cost to replace? why?

The cost of correctly replacing the timing belt may be between $ 400 and $ 1,000. Depending on labor intensity, it may take several hours to replace the timing belt. It is strongly recommended to replace the water pump, serpentine belt, timing tensioner and several seals, because these parts are sensitive to time and mileage, which can save your labor costs in the future. The total cost will vary, depending on the parts you replace. Using parts recommended by dealers or choosing fewer after-sales parts is another factor that affects pricing.

What if I don' t change it?

If it is not replaced, the timing belt may become more expensive. If the timing belt breaks, the vehicle must be towed. The result of a broken timing belt may cost thousands of dollars. In addition, the valve may bend and damage the engine, resulting in engine replacement. Our company provides a commercial vehicle engine valve.

Is there a different car?

The difference is whether your vehicle is equipped with a timing belt or timing chain. The working principle of the timing belt is the same on any vehicle. The timing belt is driven by the belt, and the timing chain is driven by the chain.

Can I replace them myself? Or can I replace it with something else?

It is strongly recommended that a professional technician or mechanic replace the timing belt. Appropriate tools, skills and knowledge are required. If it is replaced improperly and the vehicle is shut down at the right time, it may cause engine damage and become more expensive in the future. Timing belts cannot be replaced with substitutes.

How to save replacement cost?

The best option now to save money is to only replace the timing belt. If you want to replace the timing belt and other recommended parts, please choose to use after-sale parts instead of manufacturing parts.