The timing belt is so important to the running of your engine that its failure is frequently catastrophic, which means that in addition to your car suddenly not starting, the internal engine is probably also destroyed. It’s one of those parts where skipping maintenance would unquestionably result in a catastrophic failure and a higher expense, notwithstanding how painful replacement is compared to routine maintenance.
Well, in this article, we’ll uncover the timing belt replacement cost. Be that as it may, you’ll get to know the answers to the following questions:
- What Happens If The Timing Belt Snaps?
- When Should You Replace Your Timing Belt?
- Can You Recognise When the Timing Belt Is Failing?
- Can You Drive with A Bad Timing Belt?
So, keep reading as we get started!
Contents
Timing Belt Replacement Cost
More than just the belt itself is included in a timing belt service. Although everyone has a tendency to view this shift as “just the belt,” it is not. A set of tensioners and idler pulleys, each of which has bearings and is susceptible to failure, and tension, and holds a timing belt in place. The timing belt also powers the water pump, which is used in many automobiles.
Since the work to expose the pump is already being done in these situations, replacing it with a new unit at the same time makes perfect sense. Nothing is worse than paying for a timing belt servicing and choosing not to replace the water pump for an extra $100, only to learn six months later that the water pump is leaking and that everything needs to be replaced once more.
A timing belt package typically includes the belt itself, two to three idler pulleys, and a tensioner. All of these parts will be replaced after the work is complete. A timing belt set will typically cost between $100 and $350. Most timing belts require 3-5 hours of labor, which brings your overall cost up to $400–1,000. A “just the belt” replacement is not a wise choice, keep that in mind.
Although the price is lower, the likelihood of subsequent failure rises dramatically. Since the work to expose the water pump and remove the timing belt is already being done, if the water pump is being replaced at the same time, the labor should be short—less than an hour. If you choose to complete the task yourself, be sure to carefully follow the removal and reassembly instructions.
You should also conduct as much on-the-job research as you can. Do not be alarmed by the fact that a special tool is frequently needed to hold the camshafts in place during timing belt installations. Although these instruments are easily accessible, there may be a large number of them as many of them are vehicle-specific.
On the internet, there are numerous different tips and techniques for fitting a new belt while keeping the camshafts in place, many of which don’t even need the use of any equipment. Always rotate the engine slowly by hand after the new belt is in place and correctly tensioned, inspecting and double-checking the belt alignment to ensure everything looks correct.
Stop if there is any opposition! Verify the alignment again. Keep in mind that significantly more severe harm results if your timing belt fails. The cylinder head must now be removed, the valves changed, or new, re-manufactured heads must be inserted. This simply increased the timing belt repair from $400 to $1,000 to $3,000 to $5,000. Timing belt damage is frequently so costly to fix that it exceeds the value of the car.
What Happens If The Timing Belt Snaps?
Basically, if your timing belt snaps, horrible things will happen. The belt maintains synchronization between the crankshaft and the camshaft. This makes it such that the combustion process occurs just in time to keep the engine going. Your car’s timing may fall out of whack if the timing belt malfunctions or breaks, and the valves may not open at the appropriate moment.
If the air and fuel combination isn’t ignited at the proper moment, more problems emerge, leading to misfires, performance loss, and other things. As if that wasn’t terrible enough, one of the most typical issues with timing belt problems is that the valves bend. The camshaft and cylinder head may potentially be harmed. Very bad.
When Should You Replace Your Timing Belt?
Timing belts are made of rubber, just like a standard drive serpentine belt. After years of repeated heat cycling, the rubber begins to degrade, eventually causing the belt to fail. A defective timing belt will usually give little warning of an approaching break. You may be cruising along when the car suddenly dies.
Like engine filters and other comparable automotive parts, timing belts should be changed on a regular basis. They no longer need to be changed as frequently as they did in previous decades, but you should still schedule an appointment to replace the belt between 60,000 and 100,000 miles.
Many automobiles can now travel up to 100,000 miles before seeing substantial wear and tear from these belts. It’s recommended to consult your owner’s handbook to determine inspection frequency and follow the guidelines.
Timing belts are relatively inexpensive, but neglecting them for an extended period risks causing costly damage. Any vehicle equipped with a timing belt includes a manufacturer’s suggestion for replacement. These intervals are typically between 70,000 and 90,000 kilometers. Check the owner’s manual or research online for unique recommendations.
Keep in mind that miles are only a rough guide; older, low-mileage vehicles should always be evaluated for a timing belt replacement as time also degrades the rubber. For example, if you possess a 2016 vehicle with 60,000 miles and the timing belt suggestion is 70,000 miles.
Now, arrange your timing belt service. In contrast, if you possess a 2001 vehicle with only 40,000 miles but no timing belt replacement, this belt is due for replacement due to its age. In any case, this is one maintenance item you absolutely must plan for.
Can You Recognize When the Timing Belt Is Failing?
Timing belts, unfortunately, rarely provide any indication of imminent disaster. While there are additional factors, such as oil or antifreeze pouring into the timing belt region (commonly mistaken for an oil leak or water pump leak), that might hasten a timing belt’s degeneration, in the majority of cases, the belt just wears out, becomes brittle, and breaks.
The majority of timing belt covers are made of plastic and contain one or more inspection ports, plugs, or openings that allow you to rapidly remove and examine a small section of the timing belt. Cracks in the belt should be one of the first items checked.
As you are aware, the rubber will crack and chip as it ages, thus the presence of cracks on the belt should raise the alarm that it is time to replace it. Service records are another item to take into account. Always enquire about timing belt maintenance when purchasing a used car with a timing belt.
If ever, when was the last time it was performed? Does the owner have any supporting documents, such as invoices or receipts? Has the auto shop received the vehicle? Remember that contacting the dealer and requesting service records may provide information on when the belt was last changed or even whether it was ever changed at all. Lastly, if in doubt, replace the belt!
Can You Drive with A Bad Timing Belt?
With a broken timing belt, your car cannot be driven. The harm is already done by the time the belt snaps, and you will be unable to drive at all. To get the car to a shop for repairs, you’ll need to tow it. How long can you continue to drive with a damaged timing belt?
Can you still drive the car if you discover that your timing belt is damaged but it hasn’t yet broken? The belt could potentially snap at any moment, yet it is still possible to keep driving the vehicle in this condition. Once you suspect that you may have a timing belt issue, it is not recommended to drive the car for an extended period of time.
Related Article
- Timing Belt Vs Timing Chain: Differences and Which is Better
- Symptoms Of a Bad Timing Belt
- Everything you need to know about timing belt or chain
- Difference between drive belt and timing belt
- Timing Chain Replacement Cost: What To Know About
- Symptoms Of a Bad or Loose Alternator Belt
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential for responsible vehicle owners to be aware of the expense of timing belt repair. It’s important to see this fee as an investment in your automobile’s performance and longevity, even though the cost varies based on the type and model of your car. According to your manufacturer’s guidelines, replacing the timing belt on a regular basis will help you avoid costly engine damage and catastrophic engine failure. For precise estimates and to make sure your car runs well for years to come, speak with a respected repair.
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