Timing belts, we have all heard the term but may be uncertain as to what they are. Simply put, they control the timing, or co-ordination, of the opening and closing of the intake and exhaust valves with the up and down motion of the pistons. These valves allow the fuel to enter the combustion chamber and the exhaust to exit when the combustion cycle is done.
In modern cars these are rubber belts that replace the metal chain systems found on older engines. Rubber has the advantage of being lighter, cheaper, smaller and quieter. But, on the downside, its life span is shorter than a steel chain and it needs to be periodically replaced before it fails. When these belts break, the coordination of movement between the valves and pistons ceases. Serious damage to the valves can result, as they now often strike against each other. The timing belt also controls other mechanisms in a vehicle and so the full repairs can be quite costly when they go.
Most cars can go 100,000 miles before replacement, however many Korean brands are still on a 60,000 mile schedule. Mileage is not the only factor, time also affects rubber. Regardless of mileage, most manufacturers recommend that the belts be changed after five or six years. There are several factors that control when, or if, your car needs a timing belt service. You can check your owner’s manual or call us at the shop, and we can look it up on our computer to determine what might be best for your specific engine. In any event, it is best to be pro-active with a timing belt service to avoid a large, unanticipated expense.
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