An often-overlooked part of your vehicle, the timing belt is different than the serpentine belt but just as important for its operating. If the timing belt isn’t functioning properly, or if it fails completely, it can cause permanent damage to your engine.
What is the purpose of the timing belt, you wonder? It controls the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft. It also controls the opening and closing of the engine’s valves to allow air and gas in and out to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber. If the timing belt breaks, the components will not open and close at the right time to do their job.
What are the symptoms of a bad timing belt? Here are some of the most common signs:
- Odd Noises. A failing timing belt can produce a “ticking” noise coming from the engine. This noise can also be a sign of low oil pressure so have it checked out as soon as possible.
- Flashing “Check Engine” Light. This is a sign that your car has sensed an issue within the engine, typically for a timing belt failure. Your auto mechanic can diagnose the problem by reading the “error” codes.
- Car Starts Hard and Misfires. A worn-out timing belt will slip and cause the cylinders in the engine to open and close out-of-sync. The timing belt should be replaced immediately.
- Loss of Power and Rough Idling. When shifting, the gears may start slipping, leading to stalling and loss of power. The “Check Engine” light will illuminate on the dash instrument panel.
Here are two of the biggest causes of timing belt failure—your engine is running too hot or leaking oil. Most auto mechanics recommend replacing the timing belt as a preventative measure at about every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation for your specific vehicle. Spending a few hundred dollars on a new timing belt is better than spending thousands on replacing the engine.
When the timing belt is being replaced, your mechanic can check out the other components that are close to the belt, such as the water pump and vehicle hoses. As a preventative measure, it may be recommended that you replace the water pump and any cracked or brittle vehicle hoses at the same time. This will save a significant amount of time and money spent later if it becomes necessary to replace the water pump.
Have more questions about what are the symptoms of a bad timing belt? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about vehicle hoses and belts and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
An often-overlooked part of your vehicle, the timing belt is different than the serpentine belt but just as important for its operating. If the timing belt isn’t functioning properly, or if it fails completely, it can cause permanent damage to your engine.
What is the purpose of the timing belt, you wonder? It controls the rotation of the camshaft and crankshaft. It also controls the opening and closing of the engine’s valves to allow air and gas in and out to ignite the fuel in the combustion chamber. If the timing belt breaks, the components will not open and close at the right time to do their job.
What are the symptoms of a bad timing belt? Here are some of the most common signs:
- Odd Noises. A failing timing belt can produce a “ticking” noise coming from the engine. This noise can also be a sign of low oil pressure so have it checked out as soon as possible.
- Flashing “Check Engine” Light. This is a sign that your car has sensed an issue within the engine, typically for a timing belt failure. Your auto mechanic can diagnose the problem by reading the “error” codes.
- Car Starts Hard and Misfires. A worn-out timing belt will slip and cause the cylinders in the engine to open and close out-of-sync. The timing belt should be replaced immediately.
- Loss of Power and Rough Idling. When shifting, the gears may start slipping, leading to stalling and loss of power. The “Check Engine” light will illuminate on the dash instrument panel.
Here are two of the biggest causes of timing belt failure—your engine is running too hot or leaking oil. Most auto mechanics recommend replacing the timing belt as a preventative measure at about every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation for your specific vehicle. Spending a few hundred dollars on a new timing belt is better than spending thousands on replacing the engine.
When the timing belt is being replaced, your mechanic can check out the other components that are close to the belt, such as the water pump and vehicle hoses. As a preventative measure, it may be recommended that you replace the water pump and any cracked or brittle vehicle hoses at the same time. This will save a significant amount of time and money spent later if it becomes necessary to replace the water pump.
Have more questions about what are the symptoms of a bad timing belt? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Puleo’s Auto Clinic for more information about vehicle hoses and belts and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Washington, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
