TIMING BELT
AAA Approved Auto Repair in Chicago
Timing belts (as opposed to timing chains) have many advantages and are found in many passenger vehicles.
That little rubber belt keeps your engine “in time.” The pistons, intake valves, and exhaust valves all share the same real estate. The timing belt keeps these moving parts from meeting. It also runs the water pump, which keeps the engine cool by circulating coolant through the coolant passages in the engine and out to the radiator.
Belt-driven engines are quieter, but they do require timing belt service.
The interval for this service is determined by the manufacturer, but is usually done about every 50,000 to 70,000 miles.
Keeping up on timing belt services ensures that you won’t run into the situation of dealing with a broken belt, and that those small parts sharing the same cylinder space won’t run into each other. Ask your Logan Square Auto Repair mechanic on your next visit about when your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends timing belt replacement and service.
Why the Timing Belt Is the Repair You Cannot Afford to Skip
Unlike most wear items, a timing belt rarely shows obvious warning signs before it fails—it simply breaks, often with no advance notice. On an interference engine (which describes the majority of modern vehicles), a broken timing belt causes the pistons and valves to collide inside the engine. The result is catastrophic: bent valves, damaged pistons, and often a destroyed engine. Replacement cost for a timing belt service is typically in the hundreds of dollars. An engine rebuild or replacement due to a snapped belt is typically in the thousands—and sometimes more than the car is worth. Replacing the belt on schedule is one of the smartest investments a vehicle owner can make.
Signs Your Timing Belt May Need Attention
- Your vehicle is approaching or has exceeded the manufacturer's replacement interval (check your owner's manual—typically 60,000–100,000 miles).
- A high-pitched ticking or whirring noise from the front of the engine
- The engine misfires or runs roughly
- Oil is leaking from the front of the engine near the timing cover.
- The engine won't start or turns over without firing.
- You don't know when—or if—the timing belt was last replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my timing belt needs to be replaced?
Check your owner's manual for the manufacturer's recommended interval—it's typically between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. If you're unsure whether the belt has been replaced or you've recently purchased a used vehicle, bring it in and we'll inspect it.
What happens if my timing belt breaks while I'm driving?
On an interference engine, which is the most common type, a snapped timing belt causes the pistons and valves to collide, resulting in severe internal engine damage. The vehicle will stop immediately. In most cases this requires a full engine rebuild or replacement—a very costly repair that is entirely preventable.
Should I replace the water pump at the same time as the timing belt?
Yes—we strongly recommend it. The water pump is located right next to the timing belt and requires the same labor to access. Replacing it at the same time adds minimal cost but protects you from having to pay for that labor again if the water pump fails shortly after. It's one of the best value decisions in vehicle maintenance.
Does my car have a timing belt or a timing chain?
Some vehicles use a metal timing chain instead of a rubber belt—chains are generally designed to last the life of the engine and don't have a replacement interval. We can tell you which your vehicle has during any service visit, or you can check your owner's manual.
