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Timing Belt Inspection
How Much does a Timing Belt Inspection Cost?
The timing belt is a major component of the modern combustion engine. It’s designed to keep the camshaft and crankshaft timing in check, which allows the engine to run at maximum performance.
It’s designed to keep the camshaft and crankshaft timing in check, which allows the engine to run at maximum performance.
A timing belt is usually made of a composite of rubber and other materials which is located behind plastic protective covers at the front of the engine.
The timing belt, pulleys and tensioner that the belt runs on require replacement at specific manufacturer intervals. If the pulleys and tensioner are required to be replaced, additional costs may apply.
Failure to do so can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
The tensioner applies pressure to the belt ensuring it is kept at the correct tension and the idler pulleys allow the belt to stay in correct alignment.
On some vehicles, the water pump also runs off the timing belt, so it is important to inspect and replace if it is leaking or noisy. If the water pump requires replacing, it's important to budget extra as additional costs may apply.
How Does a Timing Belt Work?
The timing belt is what controls the synchronisation of the camshaft/s and crankshaft inside the engine.
This allows the engine valves to open and close at the correct time during the inlet and exhaust strokes and keep the engine operating at its optimum efficiency.
A tensioner keeps the correct pressure on the belt to ensure it does not slip and idler pulleys are used to keep the belt in line.
Common Timing Belt Issues
Noisy Idler Pulleys/ Tensioner
The timing belt uses idler pulleys and a tensioner to keep tension on the belt, this allows the belt to stay in correct alignment.
These units are usually sealed bearings – which cannot be lubricated and become noisy when they wear out.
Timing Belt Stretch
If the timing belt is not replaced at correct intervals, the belt may stretch. This will make the vehicle harder to start and reduce engine performance.
What’s Involved in a Timing Belt Inspection?
Our mechanics will run the engine, listen for any abnormal noises, and inspect under the vehicle for any leaks.
They will then remove the top timing belt cover to inspect the belt and any other components, which the mechanics will then quote on replacement, if required.
Why is Replacing the Timing Belt Important?
The timing belt controls the synchronisation between the crankshaft and camshaft/s.
If it is not replaced at the recommended intervals, it can slip, stretch or break – causing major engine damage.
Even if you are not travelling the recommended distance, the timing belt, tensioner and idlers still need to be changed by yearly intervals as the rubber and other components can break down and cause failure.
If you've read this far, you obviously care about your car. A lot. So next time you need a service, repair or inspection, visit AutoGuru. We let you search and book from over 1,600 qualified mechanics, who eat car troubles for breakfast.
