- Knowing the specific components you need to remove to gain access to the timing belt.
- Finding all the timing marks to synchronize the camshaft and crankshaft sprockets.
- Setting cylinder number one to Top Dead Center.
- Replacing related hardware.
- Properly threading and applying tension to the belt.
What are the signs of a bad timing belt?
Top 5 Bad Timing Belt Symptoms
- Engine Misfire. Since a bad timing belt can put a damper on the firing rate of the engine, it will likely cause the engine to misfire.
- Rough Idling. Are you experiencing rough idling from your engine? ...
- Broken Valves or Pistons. ...
- Low Oil Pressure. ...
- Ticking Sound. ...
How often should you replace your timing belt?
- The air conditioning system doesn’t work properly
- Power steering is sluggish or isn’t functioning at all
- The battery isn’t charging properly, or a battery or alternator warning is illuminated
- Vehicle overheats
- Belt squeals or maes other noises
- Belt is shiny, frayed, has chunks of rubber missing, or has cracks between the belt teeth
How to know when to replace your timing belt?
When to Replace Your Timing Belt
- Acura. Acuras have one of the longest intervals for timing belt replacement. ...
- Audi. Most Audis have a recommended timing belt replacement at 110,000 miles. ...
- Chrysler. In general, Chrysler vehicles should have their timing belt replaced at 50,000 miles or after five years, whichever comes first.
- Ford. ...
- GM. ...
- Honda. ...
- Hyundai. ...
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt?
How Much Does Professional Timing Belt Replacement Cost? The price the pros charge to replace a timing belt ($350 to $1,500) varies depending on the engine, make, model and year. It also matters whether an independent repair shop or dealer’s service department makes the repair.
Can you fix a broken timing belt?
As you can imagine, this isn't cheap to fix. You will be looking at a partial engine replacement depending on the timing belt damage. Many people don't replace their timing belt because it costs anywhere from $300 to $500 on average, but it will cost much more if the belt breaks, so don't get caught in this trap.
Can you fix a timing belt yourself?
But if you are and you enjoy doing your own repairs or restorations then it's something you can do yourself, and save on some big repair bills in the process. We'll walk you through the process of replacing a timing belt and water pump step by step, starting with the tools you'll need.
How do you fix the timing belt?
3:107:52How To Replace Your Timing Belt - AutoZone Car Care - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo it's time for this to be replaced. So when it all goes back together put a new belt on. It. WellMoreSo it's time for this to be replaced. So when it all goes back together put a new belt on. It. Well the crankshaft bolts are already broken loose. So we'll go and take off the crankshaft pulley next.
Is it worth fixing a broken timing belt?
In a nutshell, a broken timing belt leads to serious engine damage. It is sometimes cheaper to replace the whole engine rather than repair it. Replacing a timing belt ahead of time is so much cheaper than repairing the damage caused by a broken timing belt.
Will a broken timing belt destroy my engine?
It's quite simple really, your car cannot run at all without a timing belt. If the belt breaks while you are on the road, the car will break down immediately - and your engine can experience very serious damage.
Is there any warning before timing belt breaks?
There are some surefire warning signs you should look out for that could indicate that your timing belt is about to fail: this includes ticking noises, car not starting, piston misfires, exhaust smoke, excess vibrations and oil leaks.
What causes timing belt to break?
The tensioner that keeps the belt taut is pressurized by the engine oil. If the tensioner has no oil pressure, the belt will become loose and possibly disengage from the pulleys and/or break. If the camshafts don't have enough oil pressure to operate properly, they will also lock up, causing the timing belt to break.
What are the signs of timing belt problems?
Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Timing BeltYou Hear A Ticking Noise Coming From The Engine. ... Your Car's Engine Won't Turn Over. ... You Notice An Oil Leak Near The Motor. ... You Experience Exhaust Issues. ... Your Revs Start Acting Up.
How much does it cost to fix timing belt?
If your timing belt is in need of replacement, you can expect that service to cost anywhere from $300 up to $500. Because the timing belt is not easily reachable on many vehicles there is a good bit of disassembly and reassembly needed to get to the belt. Economy cars with smaller engines require less labor.
What does a timing belt sound like when broken?
If you hear a strange ticking sound coming from inside the engine, then stop the car immediately. After stopping, open the bonnet safely and, paying attention to the hot parts of the engine, visually check the condition of the belt.
What does a failing timing belt sound like?
A failing bad timing belt sounds like a ticking noise in front of your car when it starts wearing out. If the belt eventually breaks, it will give a whining noise when trying to start the engine. A whining noise sounds like no compression in the engine.
How long does it take to fix a timing belt?
Replacing the timing belt is an expensive service. It is an intricate, labor-intensive process that can take 4–8 hours, depending on the vehicle. But replacing the timing belt before it breaks will prevent engine damage and save you money in the long run.
Should you replace your own timing belt?
Unless the timing belt breaks, most car owners forget about the existence of the belt, let alone the need to replace it. The best time to replace the belt is on your manufacturer's recommended change interval (usually between 50,000 and 100,000 miles), even if it looks in good condition.
How much does it cost to fix a broken timing belt?
If your timing belt is in need of replacement, you can expect that service to cost anywhere from $300 up to $500. Because the timing belt is not easily reachable on many vehicles there is a good bit of disassembly and reassembly needed to get to the belt. Economy cars with smaller engines require less labor.
Can I replace a timing chain myself?
You may find the need to replace your timing chain at some point; however with the right tools, a service manual and some mechanical know-how, you can do it yourself. Just be aware that this is a major job and can have serious consequences for your engine if done incorrectly.
How do I know if my timing belt is broken on my engine?
0:032:35How to Tell if You Have a Broken Timing Belt!! - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd today I'm going to go quickly over how you can tell if your car's got a broken timing belt. OkayMoreAnd today I'm going to go quickly over how you can tell if your car's got a broken timing belt. Okay. So first thing we're going to do is actually crank the vehicle. And you know if it's your belt is
How to remove a timing belt?
Slide the belt off the sprockets. With the tension on the timing belt relieved, the belt should slide easily off the sprockets. Timing belts that have been used for a long time may stick in the pulley grooves and require some gentle prying with a screwdriver to release. Inspect the timing belt pulleys and water pump for any need to replace before proceeding to install the new belt.
How to tell if a timing belt is loose?
Examine the tensioner pulley for damage such as dents or cracks. Spin the tension er pulley and listen for a rattle or humming noise that would indicate loose or worn bearings. Uneven wear at the rear of the old timing belt could indicate a misalignment between the tension pulley and timing belt due to worn bearings.
How to access timing belt cover?
Do not remove pressurized fittings from the air conditioning compressor, most can be unbolted and pushed out of the way without discharging the system. Remove valve cover assembly as required for access to timing belt.
How to align timing on crankshaft?
Line up the timing marks. Using a wrench or socket on the crankshaft bolt rotate the engine until the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley is aligned with the 0° mark on the timing scale.
What is the purpose of a timing belt?
The task of the timing belt is to sync the valves and the pistons. An engine belt out of time will contact pistons and valves, just like the timing on a WWI aircraft machine gun, which, without a timing mechanism would shoot off the propeller.
How to remove alternator belt?
Depending on your model, you may need to remove the serpentine belt to get to the timing belt. Loosen the nuts, pushing the alternator if necessary to create slack on the belt and remove it.
How to check for oil leaks in a water pump?
Look around the camshaft and crankshaft seals, as well as the valve cover and oil pan. Check for coolant leaks from the water pump and water pump by-pass hose. Leaks should be repaired before the new belt is installed.
What is Timing Belt?
A timing belt is a part of the engine that synchronizes other parts by rotating them precisely. The rotation of these components, including pistons and valves, must be precise for optimal performance in the combustion chamber.
Instructions: How to Fix Jumped Timing Belt
The first thing you need to do is try and locate the problem. It sounds like there might be a loose belt, but it may also be something else altogether. Try running your finger around the top of the engine while someone cranks up the motor.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: If your vehicle is overheating, this could be caused by a collapsed radiator fan due to an overheat, but it may also be that the timing belt jumped and needs to be fixed.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a way to fix jumped timing belt, there are many ways that can work. This blog has covered the timing belt, how to fix jumped timing belt, and so many other things about the timing belt.
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt?
Labor on most timing belts is between 3-5 hours, putting your total cost between $400.00-1,000.00. Remember, do not opt for a “just the belt” replacement. While the cost is cheaper, the chances of further failure increase significantly. If the water pump is being done at the same time, the labor should be minimal, and less than 1 hour, as the work to expose the water pump and remove the timing belt is being done anyway.
What happens if a timing belt is not set up properly?
If a timing belt is not set up properly, “jumps time”, or worse yet – breaks, that functioning will cause the valves to be open at the wrong time. Because most engines are made with zero clearance between the piston top and the valves, this then causes in many cases the piston to collide with one or more valves in the cylinder head, causing bent valves and major damage.
What is the job of a timing chain?
Their job is to keep the mechanical timing of the engine – the intake and exhaust valves opening and closing at the exact precise time needed. Today’s engines are composed of multiple valves per cylinder, sometimes as many as 5 – and doing this properly requires exact precision between the moving pistons and the opening of the valves.
What is a timing belt made of?
As stated before, timing belts are composed of rubber, no different than a regular drive serpentine belt. Over years and constant heat cycling, the rubber begins to degrade, to the point where the belt finally fails. In most cases, a faulty timing belt will provide no warning of an impending break. You will be driving along, when suddenly the car dies.
What to ask when buying a used car timing belt?
Another thing to consider is service records. Whenever buying a used car that is equipped with a timing belt, always ask about timing belt service. When was the last time it was performed, if ever? Does the owner have documentation in the form of receipts or invoice? Has the vehicle been to the dealer? Keep in mind, calling the dealer and asking for service records may lead to clues on when the belt was last changed, or if it was at all. Finally, when in doubt, change the belt!
How much does a timing belt kit cost?
When the job is done, all these components will be changed out. In most cases, a timing belt kit will run between $100.00-350.00.
Why is timing belt so important?
The timing belt is so crucial to your engine’s operation that its failure is often catastrophic – meaning, not only does your vehicle suddenly not run, the internal engine is likely damaged. It is one of those parts that as much as the replacement is painful as routine maintenance, choosing not to perform this maintenance will absolutely lead to a catastrophic failure, and an even bigger bill.
When is it the right time to replace a timing belt?
The actual timing belt is worn out. When you notice that your timing belt is worn out , it is the right time to replace it.
Why do you have to replace a timing belt?
If it looks worn out, chances are the belt is long gone. You have to replace it because you don’t want to be stranded on the side of the road.
Why does my timing belt blow by?
As the timing belt drives the cam and the crankshaft in sync rotation, a worn-out tooth can cause the timing belt to jump a tooth on the cam or crankshaft sprocket and cause the cylinders to open randomly. If this happens, you can lead to engine blow-by if not replaced on time.
What does a bad timing belt sound like?
A failing bad timing belt sounds like a ticking noise in front of your car when it starts wearing out. If the belt eventually breaks, it will give a whining noise when trying to start the engine. A whining noise sounds like no compression in the engine.
How to tell if timing belt is bad?
Now, as a mechanic or a DIY, take white paint and paint the timing mark on the pulley so it could be easy to read when you flash the light on it. Flash the light on the pulley while the engine is running and rev the engine. If the mark stays in one place, it means your timing belt or timing chain is still okay. But if it’s jumping as you’re flashing the light, it indicates the timing belt is bad. For a visual clarification on how to use the timing gun, watch this video.
Why is my timing belt making a noise?
Because if it is loose, it will cause a bad timing belt noise. Using a Timing Gun/light: It will be a total waste of time if you take off your engine to check your timing belt and find out that it is still good. So, the best way to avoid this is by checking your timing belt with a timing gun.
What is a timing belt?
A timing belt is an essential internal engine component that links the crankshaft and the camshaft to ensure adequate sync rotation and enable the cylinders to fire appropriately. Timing belts are made of strong rubber nylon-reinforced cords that can stand the taste of time. Despite the material utilized in manufacturing the timing belt, it is subject to wear out or break due to the incredible force that it links together and will eventually need to be replaced. Your engine will not run properly without a fully functioning timing belt. Hence, you should know the symptoms of the bad timing belt.
Causes of Timing Belt Problems After Replacement
Signs of a failing or broken timing belt include whirling noise coming from the engine, misfiring, engine not turning over, and quite many others.
Frequently Asked Questions
It could be that the installation wasn’t done properly. When a timing belt is not installed correctly, it would excessively wear off, then it’d snap and break. Also, some timing belts have a rated lifespan of 50,000 miles; so, if you’re on 50,000 miles when the belt broke, it’s likely assumable that it reached its lifespan.
Summary
If you’re facing timing belt problems after replacement, the points discussed above are most likely to be the causes. Once you have them checked/resolved, the issue may never occur again.
How Often Should Timing Belts Be Replaced?
Most manufacturers recommend that you replace your timing belt every 60,000 to 100,000 miles. Your vehicle owner’s manual should give you the exact number recommended for your specific model.
What is a timing belt?
The timing belt itself tends to be a circle of rubber with regularly spaced teeth on the inner side of the belt. Sometimes timing chains made out of metal are used instead of rubber belts, but these are more expensive and less common. Either way, the timing belt system employs an array of sprockets, pulleys, and tensioner (s) regardless of the type of belt it uses.
Why does my belt make a chirping noise?
The chirping sound can be caused by the belt itself or by the tensioner or pulleys having too much play . The presence of grit or improper lubrication can also cause chirping sounds in the sprockets as they spin. Similarly, rattling or banging sounds can come from a loose or faulty tensioner or sprocket.
What is the difference between alternator belt and timing belt?
The main distinction between the alternator belt and the timing belt is that the timing belt is located inside the engine, while the alternator belt is connected to the outside of the engine and your vehicle’s battery. The alternator belt should be visible as soon as you pop your hood, but the timing belt takes a lot more effort to uncover.
Why does my timing belt rattle?
A loose timing belt or one with teeth that are wearing out or missing altogether may rattle, grind, or squeak as it spins because it doesn’t have a firm grip on the pulleys it’s wrapped around. The teeth may slip and recatch, causing noises.
Why does my engine light turn on when I turn on the timing belt?
A loose timing belt can often cause the check engine light to turn on and throw a valve timing code. If your engine light is on, the easiest way to figure out what’s wrong with your vehicle is by breaking out an OBD2 code reader to see what the car’s computer is trying to tell you. This inexpensive OBDII reader has a built-in display and works like a charm, making it an easy recommendation.
How much does a timing belt cost?
Timing belts and their components are fairly cheap with the belt itself costing roughly $20-$50. However, the timing belt is an internal component of your engine that can not be accessed without first digging into the mess of hoses, wires, and various covers found in modern engine bays. With that said, the process of gaining access to your vehicle’s timing belt could easily take over an hour by an experienced professional with all the proper tools on hand.
How Can You Tell a Timing Belt Needs To Be Replaced?
Consult a repair manual to see if you can easily remove the timing belt cover. A repair manual is different from an owner’s manual because it lists step-by-step repair procedures. Most auto parts stores carry vehicle repair manuals, and many lend them to their customers at no cost.
How Often Should a Timing Belt Be Replaced?
First, check your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule. Some manufacturers recommend replacing the timing belt every 30,000 miles, while others suggest 120,000 miles. Several other factors should be part of the equation when considering replacing a timing belt, including:
How Much Does DIY Timing Belt Replacement Cost?
Timing belt replacement should be left to the pros. It can be complicated to replace the timing belt on most engines, especially those with dual camshafts or lots of drive accessories that need to be removed.
What is timing gear indexing?
Timing gear indexing (precisely aligning the camshaft gears and crankshaft gear to the manufacturers specs ) is critical. Even if one gear is one tooth “off,” engine valve timing will be out of sync, damaging your engine or causing it to run rough. However, if you insist on replacing a timing belt yourself:
What is a timing belt?
A timing belt is similar to an engine drive belt, except timing belts have teeth. In many engines, timing belts have replaced metal timing chains (similar to a bicycle chain) connecting the camshaft and crankshaft gears.
How often should I replace my timing belt?
There is no simple answer. First, check your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule. Some manufacturers recommend replacing the timing belt every 30,000 miles, while others suggest 120,000 miles. Several other factors should be part of the equation when considering replacing a timing belt, including: 1 Engine performance I: A poor running engine could indicate a loose timing belt skewing engine valve timing. 2 Engine performance II: Engine misfire from a bad spark plug wire or coil places undo stress on a timing belt, shortening its life. 3 Clicking or squealing noise from the front of the engine: Missing teeth can cause a timing belt to make a clicking noise. A weak or defective timing belt tensioner or glazed idler pulley will produce high-pitched squealing, rattling or squeaking noises. 4 Driving conditions: Lots of city stop-and-go driving, heavy acceleration and extreme temperatures place additional stress on timing belts. 5 Common sense: If you buy a used car with more than 50,000 miles and the seller cannot show proof the timing belt was ever replaced.
Why does my timing belt fail?
Because the crankshaft keeps rotating, pistons will slam into any valves stuck in the open position, causing catastrophic engine damage. A timing belt failure in a non-interference engine will leave you inconveniently stranded. Timing belts are a maintenance item; they can wear out and fail without warning. Check your owner’s manual.
How much does it cost to replace a timing belt?
The cost of replacing a timing belt can vary greatly depending on the make and model of your car, but it's usually in the range of $100-$400. However, this does not include any repairs needed to fix problems caused by neglecting or ignoring the timing belt (when signs like these appear).
What happens when your timing belt goes out?
If the teeth on the camshaft or crankshaft slip, you won't be able to change gears. This is caused when the engine rotational speed becomes too slow to turn the valves off in time with the pistons. In effect, the valves will repeatedly be slamming into the pistons, and they'll never move again.
What is a timing belt, and what does it do?
A timing belt is a belt that keeps the camshaft and crankshaft spinning together. In a four-stroke, four-cylinder engine, this happens every two revolutions of the crankshaft. The timing belt also sends oil from an oil sump up to lubricate gears in the engine block, especially the camshaft.
Is it worth fixing a timing belt?
In general, fixing a timing belt can be well worth it because it's a lot cheaper than replacing an engine.
Is it legal to replace a timing belt yourself?
You're allowed to change a timing belt as long as you have the proper knowledge and training. You may want to consult your owner's manual or ask someone in the automotive industry for more information.
Do you need to replace your timing belt?
In general, yes – it's important to replace your timing belt on time. However, there are some situations where you can safely avoid changing it.
