Do you know what are the signs of a failing timing belt? But before that you should know what the timing belt is?
A timing belt is constructed of rubber and has strong teeth that may engage cogwheels on automotive components and overhead cams. It is a crucial part of an internal combustion engine and coordinates the crankshaft’s and camshaft’s rotation. It allows for correct engine valve opening and shutting throughout each cylinder’s intake and exhaust strokes. In an engine, the timing belt is crucial in keeping the piston from impacting the valves. Typically, a timing belt has teeth on one or both sides of the surface.
An internal combustion engine uses a timing belt to coordinate the motion of the crankshaft and camshaft. It is made with a precise hard tooth that interlocks with the two camshafts and the crankshaft’s cogwheel. The intake and exhaust valves open and close in sync with the pistons thanks to a drive belt’s precise teeth. In this blog, we will discuss the signs of failing timing belt.
When exposed to oil and at higher temperatures, rubbers start to deteriorate. In hot and oil-leakage-prone engines, the timing belt lifetime is decreased. Additionally, water or antifreeze can significantly shorten the reinforcing cords’ lifespan, necessitating extra vigilance in off-road applications.
Older timing belts typically have trapezoid-shaped teeth that wear off very quickly. Well, the majority of producers use more modern methods like curving the teeth, which results in a product that is quieter and lasts longer.
What Happens When the Timing Belt Breaks Down?
The timing belt in your car plays a crucial role in the overall performance of the engine. It makes sure that the crankshaft and camshaft are synchronized properly so that the engine valves open and close at the appropriate moments. Timing belts can fray or rip as they deteriorate over time. This is the reason they must be changed at predetermined intervals, often every 60,000 miles or so.
When a timing belt malfunctions, it may also harm other parts, increasing the expense of repairs. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s handbook for information on how frequently the timing belt has to be replaced. Timing belts should be changed regularly regardless of whether you see any damage on the exterior. The belt’s inside might be dry, increasing the likelihood that it would break abruptly. A broken belt can harm cylinder heads, deform valves, and damage pistons in addition to leaving you stranded in the middle of the road.
Depending on the type of engine in your car, a timing belt snapping might result in varying degrees of damage. Nevertheless, whether you have a non-interference engine or an interference engine, harm is likely to happen. Because of this, it’s crucial to maintain your vehicle’s timing belt and get it replaced by manufacturer recommendations.
Nothing will prevent the pistons and cylinders from clashing if the timing belt snaps. The rods become thrown off as a result, and they begin to pierce the engine block. The engine will eventually almost split in half, and there is no way to fix it. This indicates a total engine failure, and a new engine is needed. Of course, no vehicle owner wants to cope with this situation.
What Are The Signs Of Failing Timing Belt?
A malfunctioning timing belt might cause your engine to make the well-known “ticking” noise. If you check your oil and it is within a normal range, ask your mechanic to check your timing belt. This ticking sound might also indicate low oil pressure within your engine.
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Engine Check Light Blinks
If your check engine light is blinking, your automobile has detected an issue with the engine. Typically, these lights will indicate a camshaft/crankshaft correlation code indicating a timing belt failure or malfunction. A mechanic knowledgeable in car maintenance can diagnose these codes at an auto repair shop.
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The Car Starts Hard And The Engine Misfires
The cylinders in your automobile’s engine may open and close out of sequence if your timing belt is faulty or worn out. If it shows these symptoms, it’s time to change your timing belt since this might lead to an engine misfire.
Also Read:- What Is Engine Knocking? What Are Its Causes And How To Fix It?
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Loss Of Power And Rough Driving
The “teeth” that make up your timing belt are designed to grab gears as it spins the engine’s moving elements. Your automobile will start to slide gears if these teeth break or come off. This might cause your engine to fail and stall.
Alternately, your timing belt may “jump a tooth,” which may result in a lack of power for your car. You’ll see rough running, such as strange idling and a blinking check engine light.
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Smoke After The Car Starts
Because of improper mixture fuel composition, the fuel is not entirely burnt in the chambers, causing belt wear and straining to harm the catalyst. That implies that the exhaust system receives all of the fuel that has not yet been used. If the engine makes a clicking sound when you start it and you notice black smoke coming from the exhaust pipe, your fuel composition is likely off, which might be caused by several factors, including damage to the timing belt.
What Is The Lifespan Of a Car Timing Belt?
The usual timing belt lifespan is between 60,000 and 100,000 miles. However, it varies depending on the type of vehicle, engine you have and the kind of driving you do. Between these typical miles, it’s crucial to get your car serviced and have the timing belt replaced to avoid the belt snapping. A functional timing belt can usually be replaced. However repairing a damaged timing belt requires significantly more labour.
The timing belt might deteriorate over time, but it can also fail suddenly. The valve will collide with the pistons if the timing belt fails, resulting in a collision. The cylinder head, camshaft, piston, and cylinder wall can all be harmed by this impact in addition to the valves being bent.
It is a good idea to periodically check your timing belt to determine if it is beginning to show symptoms of wear. If your timing belt does show signs of wear and tear from years of service, have it changed by a qualified mechanic near me. You can avoid needing expensive repairs because the belt broke if you catch it in time. The pulleys, tensioner, and water pump should all be changed together with the timing belt.
Car Service And Repairs In Perth
Car service depends on how long the car has been driven. It means that the car service is scheduled based on the number of kilometres it has been driven. For minor maintenance, car service is scheduled at 10,000 to 15,000 kilometres. The major maintenance, however, is performed at 45,000 kilometres to 50,000 kilometres. The car service also depends on the car’s type and manufacture, and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
There are many different services offered by the manufacturer and the garage owners, including the following:
Basic service :
Basic maintenance procedures typically involve a visual check, an oil and filter change, and the topping up of the engine’s important fluids (such as antifreeze, braking fluid, washer fluid, and steering fluid). Up to 15 critical components are checked to make sure the automobile is in the finest condition possible. By manufacturer recommendations, the brakes are also examined. If the automobile requires more work, additional service is also advised; however, not all garages offer this.
Full service :
Compared to basic servicing, a complete service often includes 35 component inspections. In addition to the standard service, there is an extra charge if the automobile needs any further maintenance.
Major service :
Everything that is covered in a full service is included in a major service, along with the replacement of fuel filters, spark plugs, and any worn items/services advised by the manufacturer. This does not include any further maintenance or repairs. It’s best to conduct the timing belt change if it’s not working well. Timing belt service is essential as it helps the engine to work properly. You can call the mobile car service if you don’t have a garage near you.
Conclusion
By now, we hope you have understood the signs of a failing car timing belt. We have carefully explained the signs of a failing timing belt. Timing belts are rubber parts with tension that aid in the rotation of various engine parts. It joins the crankshaft and camshaft; the piston linked to the connecting rod provides power to the crankshaft. The purposes, operation, and various timing belt or chain types were covered in this blog. If you have a bad timing belt, contact the nearby garage. If you’re looking for timing belt replacement Perth, please contact SAI Auto Care.
