5 Warning Signs Your Car Needs a New Timing Belt

Prevention is the Best Solution

Your vehicle's mileage is the best indicator a new timing belt is needed. Most of us don't even think about it until there's a problem, but there are warning signs for a bad timing belt that you shouldn't ignore. Most commonly you will notice symptoms while trying to start your car or if it's making funny noises and acting-up while running. Since vehicle manufacturers provide specific mileage for timing belt replacement, and prevention is the best solution. If you already suspect your car needs a new timing belt, have it checked before time runs out.

Check Your Owner's Manual

Because the timing belt is responsible for turning your engine's cam and crankshaft in sync, it is subject to incredible exertion and typically needs to be replaced within 60,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on the manufacturer's recommendation. Check your owner's manual for exact mileage recommendations on your specific vehicle. There are only a few warning indicators that can help you diagnose a weak or loose timing belt, but there are no obvious clues to indicate a worn belt that may be close to snapping.

It's About Time to Replace Your Timing Belt

Since the timing belt is absolutely essential to the safe operation of your vehicle, please have an experienced mechanic inspect it if you think something is wrong. Listed below are five signs to be aware of that may help determine if it's about time to replace your timing belt:

• What's That Sound? - One sound that you need to be aware of is a high-pitched screech or whirring when you first start your car and/or when you're idling or accelerating. The next is a ticking coming from inside the engine itself. These are both possible indicators that the timing belt is malfunctioning.
• Between 2000 - 4000 RPM - An engine that starts acting up when you reach between 2000 - 4000 RPM could be failing to function normally because the timing belt is loose or breaking down from wear and tear. This may cause the belt to 'slip' while accelerating.
• Heavy Exhaust Fumes - If you notice more smoke and fumes than normal coming from the exhaust, this could be another indication that your timing belt is overdue for a replacement. The engine running with a malfunctioning belt can cause excessive exhaust fumes.
• Engine Will Not Turn Over - When you try to start your car, can hear the starter motor but the engine will not turn over in addition to any of the above warning signs - it is quite possible that damage has been done to the engine as a result of a broken or snapped timing belt.
• Car Stops Working Abruptly - This is the worst-case scenario that can leave you stranded with major engine damage. Because of the obvious danger, you will know immediately if your car stops running abruptly, that you need to have a full inspection of all running components including the timing belt.

If you're not sure about your timing belt or if you think there may be a problem, let our expert mechanics at Ace Auto Repair in West Jordan, Utah check things out for you. Don’t let time run out, contact us today for a FREE Repair Quote.

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