Within your engine, the crankshaft moves the pistons, while the camshaft controls the engine valves. Your timing belt keeps these two shafts rotating correctly so the valves and pistons never collide. These critical functions happen thousands of times per minute. A belt in excellent condition keeps everything moving smoothly.

Some vehicles use a timing chain instead of a belt. While chains are more durable, they still wear and stretch over time. Your technician can tell you which your vehicle has and the best way to maintain it.

To avoid potential damage to your engine, here are the most important maintenance tips for your timing belt:

• Always follow your manufacturer’s timing belt replacement interval. This is usually every 100,000 km, or five to seven years, whichever comes first. Check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s exact replacement interval.
• Don’t wait for timing belt symptoms to appear.
• Have your vehicle inspected if you recently purchased a used vehicle without a complete service history.

A timing belt should typically be replaced every 100,000 km or every five to seven years, whichever comes first. If you’re ever in doubt, refer to your owner’s manual for the exact service schedule.

Unlike brake pads or filters, there isn’t an easy way to see a timing belt’s condition without disassembly in the engine bay. This is why following replacement intervals is so important. Your certified technician can help ensure that your timing belt is replaced before it shows wear.

You may think replacement before signs of wear is a waste of time and money. But most modern vehicles have what is called an interference engine. If the timing belt breaks on this type of engine, the pistons and valves in your engine will collide, causing bent valves, possible cylinder head damage, and a very expensive repair.

However, the repair will rarely replace just the timing belt. If the tensioner or idler pulleys fail, for example, they’ll damage the new belt. In addition, a failing water pump can leak coolant onto the belt, causing it to degrade much faster.

Because servicing the timing belt requires removing several components in the engine bay, it’s easiest to replace these components at the same time to save significant costs later.

If your NAPA AUTOPRO technician recommends replacing all these components together, you’ll avoid paying the same labour costs again in a short period of time.

Timing belt replacement requires precise installation. The belt must be set to exact specifications, or your engine timing will be off. Even a minor misalignment can change when the valves open and close in relation to your engine’s piston movement, causing rough running, power loss, misfires, or even engine damage. Your NAPA AUTOPRO technician will use specialized tools to align the belt correctly and ensure connected components function well.

Because timing belt replacement is labour-intensive, it’s one of the most expensive routine maintenance items. However, paying for a scheduled replacement is far less than paying for an engine repair or complete engine replacement.

Trust your NAPA AUTOPRO certified technician to expertly inspect and replace your engine’s critical components before it becomes a larger issue.

Find your nearest NAPA AUTOPRO service centre and book your appointment today at napaautopro.com.