A malfunction in the timing mechanism can lead to a number of problems. It is extremely important to monitor the condition of this assembly. Read on to learn how to determine when to replace it.
When is it time to change the timing belt?
The manufacturer recommends replacement in accordance with the regulations. However, it is worth considering that the calculation of the resource is made with a reserve, so if the mileage will be more than the normative, nothing bad will happen.
What are the signs to determine the need for replacement?
There are clear signs that tell you that it is time to replace the timing belt. Let’s list the main ones:
Belt age. It is usually determined by the mileage. Depending on the brand of a vehicle, the limit of exploitation may be within 75-120 thousand km.
The engine starts insecurely or loses power. Among the causes of such behavior may be a stretched timing belt. As a result, operation of timing and ignition systems is disturbed.
Smoke coming out of the exhaust pipe. It is an indirect sign, but in some cases, over-enrichment of the mixture occurs exactly because of problems with the timing belt drive. To determine the cause for sure, you need to check the readings of diagnostic scanners (error codes will indicate the corresponding problem).
Ticking sound when the engine is running. This may indicate high wear of the teeth or the need to replace the pump.
Visual wear of the timing belt. Cracks and scuffs indicate the need for replacement.
After a timing belt failure, an engine overhaul will most likely be required. At best, only the timing belt itself and pulleys will have to be replaced. But the breakage can accompany other breakdowns as well:
Damage to the valves. The most common problem. The valves, along with the camshaft, “freeze” on a break, and the crankshaft continues to push the pistons, bending the valves on impact.
Piston punctures.
Damage to the camshaft journal.
Belt life
Routine maintenance is performed according to the mileage of the car. The technical documentation for the model specifies how many kilometers a particular engine should pass before replacing the timing belt drive. For example, the frequency of drive replacement on AUDI – 125 thousand kilometers mileage, on BMW – 95 thousand kilometers.
After 5 years of service the elasticity of the belt is lost (some modern belts can withstand up to 7 years), the risk of belt breakage increases. Therefore, when approaching the specified service life, it is worth to regularly inspect the timing belt, regardless of mileage.
Is it possible to replace the belt yourself?
Manufacturers recommend changing the timing belt in an official brand service center, where the rules of repair are observed, there is certified equipment and qualified craftsmen.
However, you can cope with this task yourself, having the necessary skills and a set of tools.
What is required for replacement?
Before replacing it, you need to buy a timing kit. It is better to buy a ready-made, it includes the belt itself and pulleys, which also need to be replaced.