Timing Belt

Your timing belt (or cambelt) synchronises the movement of the pistons and valves inside your vehicle's engine. If it breaks or snaps, the engine could be severely damaged.

Whilst all vehicles are different, every manufacturer will recommend an optimum age or mileage at which you should have a timing belt change - most will advise between 70,000 - 100,000 miles. It’s important to follow this recommendation to keep your car or van safe on the road, as it can be very difficult to tell when a timing belt replacement is due.

Some vehicles also require additional items to be replaced at the same time, such as the water pump. At Eurorepar, our qualified specialists will take care of all of this for you.

Use our simple online booking form to book your timing belt replacement at a low cost.

What is a timing belt (cambelt)?

A timing belt (or cambelt) is one of the most crucial parts of a car’s engine. It regulates your engine’s timing and can cause very expensive damage when it fails. Every vehicle has a timing belt, and it cannot run without one. Whilst it may be physically out of sight, you need to keep it in mind.

Some cars have a timing chain instead of a belt. Chains tend to be more durable, but that’s not to say that they can’t also fail. Timing chains tend to last the life of the car, whereas most cars with a timing belt require it to be checked/changed as part of the car’s servicing requirements.

When should I change my timing belt?

Most manufacturers will recommend a cambelt change every 40,000- 100,000 miles, or every 4+ years. There is no hard and fast rule on when to replace your cambelt, as it will depend on the make and model of your car and how often you drive it. However, it will usually need to be replaced more than once over the course of a vehicle’s lifetime.

7 signs that your timing belt needs changing

Your timing belt (cambelt) might need replacing sooner than expected. Here are a few signs to look out for:

·       Engine will not start

·       Driving feels rough and bouncy

·       Engine misfire

·       Frontside oil leak

·       Ticking noise coming from inside the engine

·       High-pitched screech or whirring when starting the car

·       Heavy exhaust fumes

Reasons for timing belt failure

Over the course of a car’s lifetime, its timing belt can wear out. We always recommend taking your car to a mechanic if you’re unsure - as for many vehicles, the timing belt can be hard to locate.

Other reasons can include:

·       Changes in temperature – as the timing belt is made from rubber, it stretches in warmer temperatures and then contracts when cool. Extreme temperature changes can result in minor cracks, meaning the timing belt will need to be replaced faster.

·       Oil leaks- this can get in between the belt’s teeth and cause it to slip and even come off entirely.

·       Water leaks -similarly to oil leaks, especially if the water has been mixed with antifreeze, it can have a detrimental effect on your timing belt.

·       Having an older car – older belts have different shaped teeth to newer belts which are more forgiving and wear out less quickly.

·       Infrequent driving – if your car isn’t regularly used, the timing belt can become stiff and brittle.

What happens if I don’t change my timing belt?

If a timing belt (or cambelt) change is missed when it is needed, it can result in serious engine damage. A snapped timing belt can cause the pistons and valves of the engine to collide, resulting in irreversible engine damage that will not be cheap to rebuild or replace.

How can I help to protect my timing belt?

The best way to protect your timing belt (cambelt) is with frequent servicing. It can be difficult to perform a visual check on your own as the timing belt is so well hidden within the engine. Although a timing belt check is not a requirement during an MOT, mechanics may notice a fault as part of the inspection. It’s important to book an annual timing belt check so a professional can check that your timing belt is functioning correctly.

How much does it cost to change a cambelt?

At Eurorepar Car Service, we believe in great garages and competitive prices. That’s why when you book online with us, you’re sure to get the best service at the best price.

Book your appointment using our online booking form and your chosen centre will be in touch to confirm what you’ll pay on the day, and anything else you need to know. You can also find a garage near to you with our handy Garage Locator.