Timing is considered everything, no matter whatever you do. Even timing is essential in engines because your car’s engine depends upon the timing belt to be in sync. The timing belt used in car engines ensures that every part of the car engine is working correctly.
Timing belts are available in the market at a meager price, but if it breaks during the car’s engine working, it will make thousands of dollars damage easily. So you should be aware of the time or things that tell you that it is time to replace your timing belt in the car.
But at first, you should have complete knowledge about what is the timing belt. So let’s move!
A Timing Belt
The timing belt is a belt made up of rubber material that keeps the actions of the car’s engine synchronized. It makes sure the activities of the crankshaft and camshaft so that your car’s valves move safely and then your engine can run smoothly.
In vehicles manufactured with old technologies comes up with timing belt is like a chain. The timing belt is like a rubber belt in modern cars, which is relatively inexpensive than timing chains. But both of these things serve the same purpose. The timing belt plays a vital role in the functioning of a vehicle.
Purpose of a Timing Belt in Cars
The car’s camshaft allows the valves built in the engine to let the gas and air in and out. On the other hand, the crankshaft of the vehicle moves the piston up and down. Both of these actions should be done in sync with each other.
Otherwise, it will cause damage to your car’s other parts, such as pistons, valves, etc.; that’s why a timing belt is used in a car’s engine. It provides the surety of occurring synchronization by keeping each system at an accurate rate and time.
Timing Belt VS Timing Chain
It is essential to know that either your vehicle has a timing chain or a timing belt. It depends upon the model of your car. The function of the timing belt and timing chain is the same. The only difference occurs in the material; one is metal, and the other is rubber.
Timing belts were launched in 1960. Timing chains are considered more durable as compared to timing belts.
The Time of Replacing Timing Belt
Usually, the time to replace or change a timing belt depends upon the millage intervals that your vehicle manufacturer recommends. Every model and manufacturer tells differently, but commonly a timing belt needs to be changed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. You can find it easily on your car’s manual.
The need to replace a timing belt occurs because it wears down and then automatically breaks after some time. When the timing belt breaks, the engine of the car stops running. The reason behind this is that the parts of the vehicle are out of sync. It will result in damaging your engine.
So it is always recommended to replace the timing belt according to the millage written on your car’s manual. If you don’t follow it, you will complete engine failure or break the car’s valves. Always replace it before it automatically breaks.
Signs that Tell to Replace Timing Belt
Mostly there are not any warning signs before the breaking of a timing belt. But some possibilities tell you that it might be time to change your car’s timing belt before bearing any damage. It includes:
- Overheating
- Lessened engine power
- A problem in starting the vehicle
- Leaking oil
- Rubbing noises from the belt
- Shaking or vibrating
- Ticking noise coming from the engine
Conclusion
The car’s engine is the most crucial part of the vehicle, which helps run your vehicle on the road. So, a timing belt plays an essential role in the proper working of a car’s engine. That’s why it is highly recommended to change or replace the timing belt timely without waiting for the previous one to break.
This article has told you the importance of a timing belt in your vehicle and when to replace it. Follow your car’s manual for the proper working of your car.
