Learn When To Replace The Timing Belt On Your Vehicle

Blog // Learn When To Replace The Timing Belt On Your Vehicle

Is the timing right?

When your watch is ticking, you know that it is working right. When you can hear your engine lightly it’s a sign that your engine is usually running ok, but maybe not for long. It may be time to replace the timing belt on your vehicle.

Knowing about timing belt replacements will save you from unexpected breakdowns and help you to avoid thousands of dollars in repair costs. At Honest Accurate Auto Service, we stick to the golden rule that preemptive replacement of your timing belt is the best policy.

Our expert Auto Techs know that it isn’t a question of if the timing belt will break, but when. We offer vehicle owners in Colorado Springs auto repair services from our East location on Tutt Boulevard and our West location on Nevada Mesa View.

What is a timing belt?

A timing belt is an essential part of your engine. The function of a timing belt is to synchronize movement between the crankshaft and camshaft – this movement allows valves to open and close at the correct time so that your engine can run optimally.

There are two types of engines. Interference and non-interference. The interference engine occurs when the timing belt fails or jumps a tooth on the sprocket. If this happens, you might hear our technician say that the valves and pistons have collided and have bent the valves.

If the timing belt breaks, the interference will cause major damage to your engine. If the timing belt on an older vehicle needs to be replaced, the repair cost might exceed the value of the car.

If you have a non-interference engine and the belt breaks or skips a tooth on the sprocket the car will simply stop running or not start. If you want to know whether you have a vehicle with an interference engine, click here.

Advice from Accurate Andy…

“Removing your timing cover will only make the timing belt partially visible to you. That’s why you should check if your timing belt needs to be replaced by using your owner’s manual. Your owner’s manual is a good resource and will recommend the mileage interval recommended for your specific vehicle make and model.”

The recommended replacement according to mileage ranges from 60,000 miles to 150,000 miles. If your vehicle is 6 to 10 years old, it is recommended to replace the timing belt.

How to know when to replace your vehicle’s timing belt?

If you have these questions, it may be a sign that it is time to replace your timing belt.

1. Why is oil leaking from my vehicle’s motor?

If your car won’t start it could be a variety of issues. Or it could be because it’s time to get the timing belt checked. A broken timing belt results in no compression between parts of your engine and getting it started will not be possible.

2. Why is oil leaking from my vehicle’s motor?

Oil can leak from behind the timing belt where the oil pump, various seals, and RTV are supposed to keep the engine from leaking oil. This can be one of the most expensive oil leaks possible when it comes to repair costs.

3. What is the repair history of my vehicle?

The repair history of your vehicle can provide insight into the condition of your timing belt. If your vehicle is 6 to 10 years old and the timing belt has never been serviced, it’s time to come visit Honest Accurate Auto Services!

What other services are included in my timing belt replacement?

Timing belt replacement can be pricey because of labor costs associated with the repair. Honest Accurate Auto Services saves you money by including a variety of other repairs and checks in your timing belt replacement.

Your timing belt service includes…

Water pump replacement

We replace your water pump at the same time as your timing belt. This is because the lifespan of a water pump is unknown. By doing this, you can avoid an expensive labor charge in the future.

Idler Pulleys, Tensioners, Drive Belts, Crankshaft, and Camshaft Services

These parts of your engine will be checked and replaced. We call these components “wear items” – they can be worn out by the time vehicle owners come in for a timing belt replacement.

Fresh coolant

Although not included, we recommend you have us drain your water pump and replace it with fresh coolant.

Is it time for you to stop by Honest Accurate Auto for a timing belt replacement?

When you stop by Honest Accurate Auto Services, our experienced Service Advisors and ASE Certified technicians can advise you as to when your car should have the timing belt replaced. They can also tell you if you have an interference engine.

We have two locations in Colorado Springs. Reach out today to make a service appointment!

Protect your investment in your vehicle and take care to follow your recommended service intervals. Maintain the integrity of your manufacturer warranty by caring for your car. It not only saves dollars and cents, but it makes sense!