How to Tell If Your Timing Belt Needs Replacement

The timing belt is that part of an engine which drives the valve train. The valves work in strict coordination with the engine's pistons. Should the belt fail, the valves cease while the pistons continue to move, beating against the valves and resulting in severe engine damage costing thousands of dollars. Hence, it is extremely important to know when a timing belt requires replacement.

1. Do not bother dismantling the engine in an attempt to inspect the belt. It is a tedious and difficult exercise, and most often a waste of time since the condition of a timing belt is rarely observable by inspection. Besides, most of the cost involved in belt replacement is for the labor required in getting to it. Some engine components are to be serviced at designated times rather than through inspection, and the timing belt is one of them.


2. Replace the timing belt at 60,000 miles. While timing belts have been known to last for more than 100.000 miles, most vehicle manufacturers and seasoned mechanics recommend replacement at 60,000. This is particularly true if the vehicle is driven in a climate that is very hot or very cold as these temperature extremes tend to shorten the life of a belt.


3. If you purchase a used vehicle with more than 60,000 miles on the engine, it is best to assume that the timing belt has never been changed. Look at the regular drive belts, which are easily observable. If these less expensive and readily accessible drive belts show some fraying and need of replacement, it is likely the costly timing belt does too. Have the belt replaced as soon as possible, unless the previous owner has documentation confirming that it was done prior to your purchase.