The timing belt is a crucial component necessary for running the engine. It keeps the engine moving smoothly by tightly connecting the internal parts. If it breaks, the engine may not function properly, leading to severe damage. Despite its importance, many people are unaware of how the timing belt works or when timing belt replacement is necessary. In this blog, we will explain the lifespan of the timing belt and when you should consider replacing it.
Mechanism and Position: Timing Belt
The inside of the timing belt has several protrusions called links, which are jagged. These links mesh tightly with the pulleys of the crankshaft and camshaft to synchronize the timing of each shaft. If even one link is out of alignment, the engine will not operate properly.
The position of the timing belt is inside the engine. In most cars, there is a cover that covers the timing belt, crankshaft, and camshaft. Therefore, unless you open the engine compartment and remove the cover, you cannot see the timing belt.
What happens When a Timing Belt Deteriorates?
Timing belts are made of rubber, so they will deteriorate over time. If the timing belt breaks, the timing of the crankshaft and camshaft will shift, causing the parts to collide and break. In the worst-case scenario, this can cause serious damage and require major engine repairs or the entire engine to be replaced.
Timing Belt Replacement Time
Timing belts are consumables and have set replacement intervals. Although the timing belt replacement interval is quite long, it is an important part related to the engine, so it is important to remember the replacement interval.
1. The recommended replacement time is 100,000 km.
Most commonly in cars, the timing belt is generally recommended to be replaced every 100,000 km. However, since the timing belt is a rubber product, it will deteriorate over time, such as cracking. Therefore, we recommend that you have it inspected and consider replacing it 10 years after buying a new car. Also, some of the cars are often not very durable, and some will need to be replaced after about 5 years or 40,000 km.
2. Signs that your timing belt is about to break
There are no warning signs that a driver can feel while driving that a timing belt is about to break. Whether or not the timing belt needs to be replaced before it breaks can be judged to some extent by the condition of the cracks in the timing belt. However, since the timing belt is covered, it is not easy for the user to visually check it.
It is recommended that it be inspected at a repair shop. Whenever you face these signs you should immediately call Hytec Auto Garage in Dubai located at the prime location (Al Quoz). Where you can get in and trust the mechanics to take care of your vehicle.
Summary
We have introduced the idea that the timing belt is an important component of a car’s engine. We also explained that replacement is necessary because the part is a consumable item, and that replacement costs tend to be high because the work required is extensive and labor costs are high.
Even if the replacement labor costs are high, if you continue to drive without replacing the timing belt, it could break while you are driving, causing the engine to break and leading to a serious accident. Also, if the engine blows, it will be even more expensive, so it is advisable to replace the timing belt before the car has traveled 100,000 km or before 10 years have passed.
Contact Hytec Auto Garage for the best car repair and maintenance services. We are known for our best customer service and support and for transparent quotes & services. Get in touch ASAP and save your car from a major disaster.
