Timing belts are made of rubber which is reinforced with steel wire. A timing belt is not only a belt, it is one of the most important connections of all: the one between the camshaft and crankshaft.
The timing belt is a critical component of your engine and must be serviced at manufacturers’ recommended intervals. We recommend replacing the timing belt every 6 years or in between 100,000 to 150,000 km. Check your owner’s manual for the recommendation specific to your vehicle’s engine.
Signs the timing belt may be failing
It can be hard to set a watch to when a replacement is necessary, here are the most common signs of a failing or broken timing belt to help you recognize.
Check Engine Light Is on And Flashing
A flashing check engine light is a sign that your car has picked up on an issue within the engine. typically for a timing belt failure or issue these lights will signal a CAM shaft/crankshaft correlation code. These codes can be diagnosed by a vehicle maintenance trained technician at your local garage.
Engine misfires
Misfiring is a common occurrence with failing timing belts. If your timing belt is failing or worn out it can slip on the camshaft drive and cause one cylinder to open or close earlier than it should. If the belt is not fixed and misfires continue to happen regularly, then you risk permanent damage to your engine.
Ticking or clicking noises in the engine
When the timing belt wears out, it can cause a ticking or clicking sound inside the engine. This sound can also indicate low oil pressure, which in turn can affect the timing belt. If the camshafts don’t have enough oil pressure to operate properly, they will also lock up, causing the timing belt to break.
Smoke from the engine or exhaust
In cold weather, it’s natural to see water vapor or ‘steam/smoke’ exiting a car’s exhaust system until the engine is warm. If your car shows a little too much smoke from the exhaust, it could be to do with the timing belt
Belt appearance
Timing belts are not easily accessible, which is why you need a professional to conduct a visual inspection. You should have your belt inspected with each oil change.
If you notice any of these signs, you’ll need a mechanic to check the condition of your timing belt. At Logic Fleet Service Centre, we perform expert timing belt and water pump replacement on all makes and models of cars and vans. Feel free to make an appointment. To know more about Timing belt replacement and chain services click here…
Why replace a Timing belt & water pump at the same time?
The water pump is designed to circulate water in the cooling system to prevent the engine from overheating. Ensuring the water pump is in great condition is key to avoid overheating of the engine and avoid potentially expensive repairs.
It is standard practice to replace the water pump at the same times as replacing the timing belt as the mechanic will have the water pump accessible when replacing the belt. This saves money in the medium term as replacing the water pump at a later stage will involve a similar amount of labour as doing the belt on its own. Replacing of both components together will be beneficial to the vehicle’s engine and will save you money and time. The mechanic will also replace the idler pulley and tensioner as a matter of preventive maintenance.
Timing belt and water pump replacement services
Replace the timing belt and water pump in time will save yourself thousands in auto repair costs compared to if the timing belt fails. Logic Fleet Service Centre in Tallaght specializes in a variety of automotive repair services, including timing belt issues. For Timing belt & water Pump Replacement Service in Tallaght, contact us on 014203000 or book your appointment now.
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