How Often Do I Need to Change the Timing belt?
The camshaft and crankshaft in an automobile are kept running smoothly by the timing belt, commonly known as the cambelt. It uses speed to control the opening and closing of valves in the engine. A timing belt can have an impact on the car’s overall performance. It can impede other elements of the engine from running efficiently if it starts to exhibit indications of wear and tear.
If the timing belt fails, the pistons and valves collide, resulting in internal damage. In this post, we’ll look at how often you should change your timing belt to avoid a problem like this.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD THE TIMING BELT BE CHANGED?
A timing belt can endure from 90,000 to 160,000 kilometres. Every car manufacturer has a mileage or year recommendation for replacing the belt. Even before the estimated period, the belt may begin to show indications of wear and strain. It’s critical to pay attention to these signs and replace the belt as soon as feasible.
SIGNIFICANCE THAT IT’S TIME TO CHANGE THE TIMING BELT
There are usually certain warning indications that suggest it’s time to change or replace your timing belt. This includes the following:
NOISE
When the engine is started, the time belt makes a loud noise. A high-pitched grinding, screeching, rattling, or ticking noise is usually heard. This signifies that the belt is beginning to fall out of place and needs to be replaced. Under the hood, you may examine the belt in greater detail. It’s time to replace them if they have a glossy or glazed appearance.
ENGINE POWER REDUCTION
When the belt isn’t performing properly, your engine won’t start or won’t operate smoothly. A worn timing belt might cause your engine’s valves to operate at incorrect intervals, resulting in a loss of engine output.
MISTAKES IN ENGINE PERFORMANCE
The engine misfires due to a worn-out belt. It occurs when the belt slides, causing the cylinders to abruptly open and close. The vehicle will vibrate or shake, and a hammering noise will establish that the belt needs to be replaced.
OIL LEAKAGE
An early indicator of a belt failure is oil leaking. Keep a close watch on it during your car’s routine maintenance. The timing belt cover is the most common source of leakage. Additional indicators of a worn-out belt are described below.
Overheating in the car
Shaking or vibrating
The engine is making a ticking noise.
Light on the Engine
TIME BELTS REPAIR AND REPLACEMENT COSTS IN THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
There are no set prices for the costs. The cost is usually determined by the car, v belt types, and level of damage. Furthermore, because timing belt repair is a labor-intensive task, it may cost you extra, depending on the extent of the damage.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE TIMING BELT’S PERFORMANCE
A worn or slack belt might also cause your engine to overheat, resulting in irreversible engine damage. Timing belts wear out faster due to a number of causes, including:
STYLE OF DRIVING
Your driving style is one of the most important elements affecting the performance of your timing belt. Your timing belt will perform more efficiently and last longer if you carefully manage the downshift. Unnecessary shifting or rough downshift handling, on the other hand, might put a strain on the belt, causing it to wear out. As a result, several experts advise only using downshifts when absolutely necessary.
VEHICLE USE
The frequency with which you should replace your timing belt is determined by how often you drive your car. If you utilize your automobile for commercial purposes, such as uber or rideshare, your timing belt will most likely need to be replaced more frequently. The timing belt can last 7 to 10 years in a car that is only used for personal purposes. The belt’s lifespan is largely determined by your vehicle’s mileage. Examine yours and adjust the belt properly.
MILEAGE
Another aspect that impacts the life of a timing belt is the vehicle’s mileage. According to experts, it is time to replace your car timing belt if you have travelled 60,000 miles or more.
TEMPERATURE
Rubber is used to make timing belts. When rubber warms up, it stretches and then shrinks as it cools down. Extreme temperatures, such as those found in the UAE, can produce tiny cracks in the rubber on the belt’s outside surface. In this instance, park your automobile in the garage or in a shady place.
In the UAE, whether you own a new or old car, you must adhere to a strict maintenance plan. In the event that your timing belt wears out, you will be able to minimize the damage in a timely manner. Timing belt maintenance and replacement on a regular basis can save you a lot of money while also ensuring that your car engine runs smoothly. On Shibam S P Traders, you can get all kinds of automotive spare parts and accessories in the UAE.
