Your vehicle's timing belt or timing chain is an integral part of any vehicle. It turns your engine's camshaft in sync to ensure that each cylinder fires at the right time. Sometimes this job is done by a gear system instead; however, there must be a crankshaft rotation timing system that allows the engine valves to open and close at the right time.
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| bad timing belt symptoms |
Your vehicle's timing belt is located under the timing belt cover on the front of the engine. The construction of this component includes high quality rubber interwoven with reinforced nylon cords inside to help extend its life. Your timing belt is subject to great forces inside your car's engine and will need to be replaced from time to time. Your engine will not run without a fully functional timing belt.
Not all vehicles have a timing belt. Timing belts are popular in cars with smaller engines. Manufacturers will opt for a timing chain instead of a timing belt on larger bore or stroke engines. The timing chain system replaces a guide belt with a metal chain. In general, a timing chain has a much longer life than a timing belt; some are even known to last the life of a vehicle. Depending on your vehicle, the manufacturer has a predetermined recommendation on when your timing belt should be replaced. If you're not sure, check your vehicle's manual or visit your local Bay Area auto repair center and have a mechanic verify the information for you.
Symptoms of a Faulty Timing Belt
If your vehicle has a faulty or defective timing belt, it will often give off signs. Once you experience one or more of these symptoms, it's important to have a certified auto mechanic, such as one in the AAMCO Bay Area, inspect and, if necessary, replace your timing belt.
Read also: How to Test Your Car Alternator for Power
Lack of Power and Engine Misfire
When your engine misfires, it's usually a valve timing problem. A worn timing belt will affect the firing rate of your engine because it is attached to the pulleys that drive the crankshaft. Sometimes the belt slips on the camshaft drive, causing the engine's cylinder to open and close sooner than it should. The result is a misfire. If ignored, this could result in catastrophic engine damage.
Engine won't turn over
In the event that your timing belt is broken on the inside, it will not be possible for your engine to fire up or run. As you turn your key, you will hear the starter engage, but since your timing belt is what engages your crank and camshaft, it will not turn over. Your vehicle will not turn over, and the most appropriate course of action would be to call a professional mechanic. If the problem is due to a broken timing belt, there is a good chance that it will damage other engine compartments - more often than not, this damage is severe.
Oil leakage in front of the engine
Another sign of potential timing belt wear is an engine oil leak from the timing belt cover. Your timing belt cover is held in place by a series of bolts that, over time, will loosen. Another problem that will lead to an oil leak is when the seal between the engine timing cover and the engine block wears out if it is pinched or improperly installed. An oil leak from your vehicle's timing cover will lead to overheating as well as premature timing belt wear.
What are my options?
It is very difficult to diagnose timing belt problems without professional knowledge or experience. Therefore, it is important to consult the manufacturer's manual to determine its replacement interval or to have your vehicle's timing belt replaced by a certified or professional mechanic.