Understanding Timing Belt Maintenance

To avoid timing belt failure and related engine damage, talk to your customers about the importance of timing belt maintenance. These facts and figures will give you all the data you need to keep your customers up and running.

Timing belts by the numbers

On average, timing belts should be replaced at 90,000 miles *Always refer to the manufacturer's suggested replacement interval

Inspecting the timing belt can save 1,000s of dollars in repairs

#1 cause of wear: heat

Four basic components of a timing belt - belt, idler pulley, tensioner and water pump

Timing belts are different

Use these diagrams to explain the importance of timing belt maintenance.

Evaluating your timing belt

An important consideration remains, how much work is involved in getting to a timing belt. So, other engine maintenance - such as water pump repair, coolant replacement and the examination of other belts and components - are the best opportunities for technicians to evaluate the timing belt.

A defective timing belt cover can let in oil, water or dust. (repair ASAP)

But aren't there any clues?Warning signs include noises like grinding, knocking and squealing. These noises can indicate high or low belt tension, a defective bearing or a misalignment.

Change the whole system when you replace the belt. (aka fix it and forget it)

Check it right:

Oil and coolant leaks

Leaking within bearing seal

Noise issues

Engine roughness

Abnormal belt appearance

Pulley wear or failure

Hydraulic tensioner failure

Misaligned belt

High mileage

*A simple visual inspection may not reveal pulley or tensioner bearings on verge of failure. Belts fail from the inside out.

CHECK IT WHEN YOU CAN:
If belt is visible, inspect at every oil change. Detect misalignment, tooth separation, missing teeth, and/or "shiny" belt. Look for cracks. Understand current mileage of the vehicle and service history of the timing belt drive system.