How often does a timing belt need to be changed?

Wondering how often does a timing belt need to be changed? It depends on the make and model of your car. It also depends on how much you drive the vehicle. The best guide would be the car handbook to see what the manufacturer mileage recommendations are. 

It is safer to replace the timing belt even earlier than the manufacturer recommends. In general, however, timing belts needs to be replaced from 60,000 miles up to 150,000 miles. 

What is involved in a timing belt replacement? 

Qualified auto repair technicians must always do the timing belt replacement. When you take the car to have the timing belt replaced, check with your auto repair technician if the water pump needs to be replaced. In many cars, the timing belt and water pump are next to each other and getting to them is labor-intensive. Replacing both at the same time might be time and cost-saving. 

Replacing the timing belt requires access to the timing cover and crankshaft pulley. To get to the timing cover, the fanbelt and power steering belt must be removed as they sit beside the timing cover. The upper and bottom sections of the timing cover are then removed. 

Before the crankshaft pulley is loosened and the timing belt removed, the camshaft pulleys are marked for easy reassembly. The pulleys need to realign perfectly for good engine performance. The old timing belt is removed and replaced with the new timing belt. A triple check is done to ensure the pulleys are in line with the markings. All parts are then reassembled.             

Why Should I Get My Timing Belt Inspected?

The first and most important reason for a timing belt inspection is safety. To ensure your safety and that of your loved ones.  If the timing belt breaks while you are driving, or at idle there could be extensive engine damage resulting in the car stopping while driving or stalling at a stop, both can be dangerous. 

The second reason is the timing belt replacement cost. It is cheaper to replace the timing belt than to have to repair or replace the cylinder head and worst case the engine. 

Professional Automotive Repair offers one-stop convenience for your car needs, whether you own a Volvo, American or Import car. Wondering how often does a timing belt need to be changed? Contact Professional Automotive Repair in Marietta today.