How to know your timing belt needs to be replaced

When most owners think about car maintenance, they don’t tend to think about the timing belt. However, this belt is crucial in the proper operation of your engine, as it’s responsible for syncing the camshaft and crankshaft to ensure the engine valves open and close correctly. Normal wear and tear is to be expected, so it’s not unreasonable to expect that your vehicle will need a new one during the life of your vehicle.

So, how do you know if your timing belt needs to be replaced?

3 Signs Your Timing Belt Needs Replaced

Starting Issues

If your vehicle is having issues starting, your timing belt may be worn down, causing the belt to slip on the camshaft drive. Also, a worn or stretched belt not only disrupts the synchronization of the valves and can lengthen the time it takes for the ignition to work, if it starts at all.

Seeing Smoke

If you see a significant change in the exhaust, whether amount or color, your timing belt may be the culprit. Since a worn out belt can cause your vehicle to work harder, this means you may see more exhaust leaving the car.

3. Tick, Tick, Boom

If you’re hearing a ticking noise from your car, that can be a sign of a serious issue with your timing belt. Considering the complex series of pulleys that run from the crankshaft to the camshaft, a worn out timing belt can create a ticking noise inside of the motor. Left unattended or ignored, this will be devastating to the engine, as nothing will keep the pistons and cylinders from colliding, which can lead to the rods poking holes in the engine block. Engine replacement isn’t cheap or easy, so it’s best to keep an eye out for these issues before the worst happens.

Let London’s Automotive Help!

Service the community of Corvallis, OR, our experienced team of technicians are ready to help you get that timing belt diagnosed and replaced, so you can get back on the road and drive safely as soon as possible. When you’re ready for us to help, contact our office to schedule an appointment today! We’d love the opportunity to serve you!