BAD TIMING BELT: THE 5 SYMPTOMS

If you’re a Bakersfield driver, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms of a bad timing belt. A timing belt connects to the crankshaft in your vehicle and controls the pistons and valves. The belt is reinforced rubber with teeth on the inside of the belt that adjust to the opening and closing of these valves and pistons.

Some signs that your timing belt may be going bad include:

Squealing noise coming from the engine

Check Engine light is on

Engine is misfiring

Car is idling rough

Car won’t start

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to take your car to a mechanic and have them check your timing belt. Ignoring these signs can result in catastrophic and expensive damage to your engine.

What does a timing belt do?

Your car’s engine pistons are moved up and down by the crankshaft, and in order for them to move correctly, the air and gas mixture must be injected into the engine at precisely the correct time.

If the timing belt is not working properly, it can cause a loss of power, fuel economy, and even prevent your engine from running. Damage to your engine is a high risk if your timing belt is not replaced or serviced as needed.

Here are some bulleted points explaining what a timing belt does and why it’s important to keep it in good working order:

– A timing belt synchronizes the crankshaft and camshaft so that the engine’s pistons can move up and down correctly.

– If the timing belt is not working properly, it can cause a loss of power, fuel economy, and even prevent your engine from running.

– A timing belt typically needs to be replaced every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.

– Some newer cars have a timing chain instead of a timing belt – these typically don’t need to be replaced as often, but it’s still important to check your owner’s manual to see what is recommended.

If you’re unsure about whether or not your car has a timing belt or timing chain, or if you’re due for a replacement, it’s always best to consult with a qualified mechanic. They can inspect your car and let you know what needs to be done

How long does a timing belt last in a car?

The average life of a timing belt is around 60-100k miles, but this can vary depending on the make and model of your car.

Different manufacturers have specific years and mileage at which they advise a change – for example, Toyota recommends changing the timing belt in a Camry every 60,000 miles.

US Department of Transportation estimates that the average miles driven by an individual are around 13,500 miles. This means that, on average, a timing belt change would be required every 4.5 to 7.5 years.

However, some models – such as the Volkswagen Jetta (Manual Transmission) – allow you to keep your timing belt until 120,000 miles.

So, based on all these factors, we can safely assume that your timing belt will last for 60,000-105,000 miles on average, or will require a change every 4.5-7.5 years.

Of course, this is just an estimate – your car’s individual mileage and service schedule may mean that you need to replace your timing belt more or less frequently. Always consult your car’s owner’s manual for manufacturer recommendations on timing belt replacement.

What are the Top 5 symptoms of a failing timing belt?

>Rewrite the above as a blog intro paragraph with bullet points talking to Car Owners who Want to Know what are the Top 5 Symptoms of a Bad Timing It’s important to be aware of the Top 5 Symptoms of a Bad Timing Belt.

When the timing belt starts to wear out, it may create a ticking sound inside the motor. This warning sign may also be an indication of low oil pressure or the engine not having the proper amount of lubrication. Listed below are a few common symptoms that might indicate that your timing belt is wearing out or has broken – which will require a local ASE certified mechanic to replace the timing belt and inspect other internal engine components for damage.

-Ticking sound coming from the engine

-Engine Oil pressure warning light

-Excessive Engine vibration

-Engine will not start

-Misfiring Engine cylinders

Checking for these symptoms can help you to avoid costly repairs down the road. Remember that your timing belt must be changed by a certified ASE mechanic in order to ensure that it is replaced correctly and to check the rest of the engine components for internal damage if the vehicle has had the problem a while.

When do you know it’s time for a timing belt replacement?

Ticking in the Motor:

As the timing belt begins to wear out you will hear a ticking sound coming from the engine. While this ticking is usually a sign of and old or worn out belt it can also be attributed to low oil pressure or other lubricants. If you notice a ticking noise coming from your engine and all of your fluids are at the correct level, chances are the belt is the issue.

Engine won’t turn over:

When the timing belt is broken you will not even be able to start your vehicle. You may hear a clicking sound when you turn the key but the engine will not fire. This clicking is coming from the starter motor. But when the belt is broken it won’t allow the crankshaft and the camshaft to operate. There are many times that you won’t even know that the timing belt has broken because in many cases the belt fails while driving. This is why it is important to have a mechanic change the belt. He/She can check for further internal damage that was bound to happen while driving. A mechanic at G&G will know how to inspect the more internal components of the vehicle.

Oil leaks in the front of the motor:

If the nuts and bolts that secure the timing belt cover begin to loosen oil begins to seep out and onto the components. This over time will deteriorate the rubber. Common overheating occurs when these bolts are loose and can cause premature wear. The gasket that is between the cover and the engine block wears out over time and it’s a good idea to have these areas checked periodically.

Engine misfiring:

Worn out parts will affect the engine’s fire rate. When the belt has slipped off the camshaft drive, for instance, it will cause the cylinder to open and close earlier than it should. This causes the engine to misfire. When an engine misfires you will hear a loud popping sound. Commonly referred to as a backfire. Backfiring occurs when unburned fuel is expelled out of the cylinder on the exhaust stroke and is ignited deeper in the system than it should. If you notice your car backfiring, get your vehicle in for service as soon as possible.

 ***

Why is it important to change a timing belt periodically?

It is important to change a timing belt periodically because if it fails while driving, the chances are that repairs will run you upwards of $2000-$2500 in some cases. A typical timing belt replacement will run you around $500-$900 in parts and labor.

Keep up with the maintenance on your car to avoid more costly repairs down the road. Replacing every 60,000 miles or so will help to avoid any unforeseen issues.

Here are the four main reasons:

1)Timing belts typically need to be replaced every 50,000-70,000 miles.

2)If your belt fails while driving, the repairs can be very expensive.

3)A failed part can cause damage to valves and pistons, as well as the water pump.

4)It’s always cheaper to do routine maintenance than wait for repairs.

So be sure to keep up with your car’s maintenance schedule. 

Conclusion

Replacement is a necessary maintenance service that should be done periodically, as specified by the manufacturer. The cost of replacing the this part can be expensive, but it’s much cheaper than repairing damage caused by a failure. If you’re noticing any of the symptoms of a failing belt, it’s important to bring your car in for service as soon as possible. Taking care of the problem early on can save you a lot of money and hassle down the road.

FAQS

1. Does my car have a timing belt?

The majority of cars made after 1985 have a timing belt. If you’re unsure, consult your owner’s manual or a mechanic.

2. What are the symptoms of a failing timing belt?

-Ticking sound coming from the engine

-Engine Oil pressure warning light

-Excessive Engine vibration

-Engine will not start

-Misfiring Engine cylinders

3. How much does it cost to replace a timing belt?

$500-$900.

4. How often should I replace my timing belt?

Every 60,000 miles.

5. What happens if my timing belt fails while driving?

The engine will stop running and you’ll be stranded.

6. Can I drive without a timing belt?

NO

7. What other maintenance do I need to do on my car?

Oil changed every 3,000-5,000 miles and your Tires rotated every 5,000-7,500 miles. You should also have your brakes checked periodically.

8. I think my timing belt may be failing, what should I do?

If you think your timing belt may be failing, it’s important to bring your car in for service as soon as possible.

CALL US: 661-679-7957

DRIVE SAFE, DRIVE SMART