What is a timing belt?

A timing belt is a part of your engine that synchronizes the rotation of the crankshaft and the camshaft(s) so that the engine's valves open and close at the proper times during each cylinder's intake and exhaust strokes.

When and why should I replace it?

Timing belts must be replaced at the manufacturer's recommended distance and/or time periods. Failure to replace the belt can result in complete breakdown or catastrophic engine failure.

The owner's manual maintenance schedule is the source of timing belt replacement intervals, typically every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. It is common to replace the timing belt tensioner and water pump at the same time as the belt is replaced.

• The usual failures of a timing belt are either stripped teeth (which leaves a smooth section of belt where the drive cog will slip) or delamination and unraveling of the fiber cores.
• Correct belt tension is critical - too loose and the belt will whip, too tight and it will whine and put excess strain on the bearings of the cogs. In either case belt life will be drastically shortened.
• Aside from the belt itself, also common is a failure of the tensioner, and/or the various gear and idler bearings, causing the belt to derail.

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