What happens if timing belt not replaced

The timing chain system replaces a runner belt with a metal chain. In general, a timing chain has a much longer lifespan than a timing belt; some are even known to last the entire lifespan of a vehicle. Depending on your vehicle, the manufacturer has a predetermined recommendation on when your timing belt needs replacing.

If your vehicle has a bad or faulty timing belt, it will often give off some signs. A worn-out timing belt will affect your engine fire rate since it is attached to the pulleys that drive the crankshaft. Sometimes, the belt will slip on the camshaft drive causing the engine cylinder to open and close earlier than it should. The result is a misfire. If ignored, it could lead to catastrophic engine damage. Your vehicle will not be able to turn over, and the most appropriate thing would be to call a professional mechanic.

Oftentimes, the timing belt will break while the car is in motion. This can cause serious damage to cylinder head hardware like rocker arms, push rods, or valves. Another common sign that your timing belt is in bad shape is an oil leak. If you start to notice oil around your engine, your vehicle may be experiencing a leak, which often occurs from the timing belt cover. While your timing belt cover may be secured by a series of nuts and bolts, it is very likely that they can come loose over time.

An oil leak may also occur when the gasket between the engine block and timing cover wears out or is cracked. This can lead to your engine overheating and a handful of other expensive repairs. As a result of this excess work, your car will expel more exhaust than it should. To put it simply, the timing belt ensures that the valves and pistons inside your engine all move in sync. It does this by controlling the rotations of both the crankshaft and the camshaft. As we mentioned earlier, most timing belts tend to wear down somewhere between 60, and , miles.

Keep an eye out for these telltale signs of timing belt damage. As the timing belt wears down, it loses its gripping power and begins to slip. This is especially noticeable when driving in wet weather or when towing a heavy load.

This can happen when one of the pulleys or tensioners is out of alignment or when the belt experiences extreme heat. Cracks: A timing belt that has cracks in it is clearly not in good condition. This weakened belt needs to be replaced as soon as possible. On top of that, your technician may also inspect other areas of the vehicle to determine what caused the cracking.

Loss of Power: A malfunctioning timing belt can actually cause your engine to lose power. This happens when excess moisture gets trapped between the belt and the pulleys, causing the belt to hydroplane and cease turning with full force. Open Today! Sales: 9am-8pm. Service: 7am-6pm.