Your vehicle’s timing belt is an extremely important internal engine component. Its main job is to keep your cam and crankshaft rotating in sync so that the cylinders of your engine fire at the appropriate time. Should your timing belt be worn, cracked, old or broken it is best to invest in a timing belt replacement sooner rather than later. In fact, a timing belt in need of repair or replacement can often cause many other engine issues that can become quite costly.
When To Replace Your Timing Belt
All makes and models of vehicles are different so it is best to look in your owner’s manual to see when the manufacturer suggests a timing belt replacement for your vehicle. On average a timing belt should be replaced every 90,000 miles. Here at JnJ Auto Service we also like to stress the importance of scheduling regular timing belt inspections as your vehicle ages or mileage increases. Often times many drivers do not know their timing belt is in need of repair until it breaks leaving you stranded.
#1 Cause of Timing Belt Wear…HEAT
Your timing belt is made up of high-grade rubber and is able to withstand incredible force and pressure inside your vehicle’s engine. Components such as dust, oil, and water coupled with high heat begin to break down the rubber after an extended period of time causing the need for a timing belt replacement. JnJ Auto technicians know the importance of maintaining your vehicle’s engine components.
Warning Signs Its time To Replace Your Timing Belt
Ticking Noise- Should you hear a ticking noise coming from the inside of your engine you may have a timing belt issue. A ticking noise can be a sign of low oil pressure or a breaking timing belt.
Vehicle Doesn’t Start- While your timing belt usually breaks while the engine is running, the fact that your vehicle won’t turn over could mean you have a broken timing belt. If your timing belt is broken you may hear your starter trying to engage with no success.
Misfires- Should you notice your vehicle misfiring you may have a timing belt issue. A worn-out belt can cause the belt to slip on the camshaft creating an issue with one cylinder not opening and closing in sync with the other, resulting in a misfire.
JnJ Auto Service certified mechanics know the dangers and consequences of waiting too long to inspect or replace your timing belt. We also know that because of where your belt is located within the front of your engine, replacing your belt is an in-depth job. Our auto technicians suggest a timing belt inspection should you be repairing or replacing your water pump, coolant or any other belts or internal engine components.
Other Engine Components Associated With The Function & Health Of Your Belt Include:
Front Motor Oil Leak- After a period of time the cover over your timing belt may loosen causing the oil to leak into the front of your engine. Excessive oil coating your timing belt can help to wear down and weaken the rubber it is made up of.
Broken/Worn Gasket- There is a gasket between your timing belt cover and engine that can wear out, break or become pinched over time. This can cause the oil to leak into the front of your engine. Leaking oil can cause your vehicle’s engine to overheat, which is bad for the overall health of your vehicle.
Let JnJ Auto Service help you to keep your timing belt in good health. Or should it need repair our auto technicians offer affordable, dependable, professional timing belt replacement and repair. Servicing Phoenix and it’s surrounding cities we would love to assist you with all of your automotive needs. Give us a call or fill out our quote form today!