Why Timing Belt Replacement should be done on Regular Basis

It is very important for every car owner to schedule the replacement of his/her timing belt on a regular basis. Timing belts are auto parts that are very difficult to inspect visually. To help avoid excessive timing belt replacement cost, car owners should do this regularly to avoid incurring too much expense. Timing belts are undeniably expensive auto parts. The usual range for these belts cost around 270$ to 750$ depending on the quality. Aside from this cost, another factor is the amount paid to laborers. Since timing belt replacement is a really tough job, many laborers are charging very high. The replacement usually takes 2 to 6 hours, and labor rates vary from mechanics.

Of course aside from timing belt replacement cost, separate feed will be charged for every additional auto service that the car owner requests. Additional services such as engine maintenance, fuel and heater core replacement, and water pump replacement. Some technicians recommend car owners to replace their water pump when they request for a timing belt replacement even if there is nothing wrong with it. Additional auto part replacement means additional cost but mechanics do have a good reason for this recommendation. Although most water pump can last for as long as the life of the car, a broken water pump replacement is definitely costly and it can sometimes cost more than the timing belt replacement cost. Getting a water pump replacement is optional, and drivers can freely decline this suggestion. The best thing that car drivers could do before looking for a mechanic is to hit the car’s manual first. Check if the manufacturer suggests replacement for these parts at the same time.

There are some car engines with overhead camshaft that have timing belts with limited life span. Today, many car manufacturers prefer using these belts instead of durable chains because they produce lesser noise and are more cost effective. Cars are provided with manuals that include the interval range of the belt. The usual mileage interval range of timing belts are around 60,000 miles to 150,000 miles. Again, timing belts vary from one another depending on its manufacturer.

The purpose of a timing belt is to help twist the camshaft at exactly half the speed of the crankshaft while trying to keep a precise alignment. The camshaft causes the exhaust valves and intake to open and close when the pistons move up and down in the cylinders. These valves must open and close at the right time in order for the engine to work properly. Timing belts function by helping the crankshaft create two revolutions for every crankshaft revolution of the camshaft.

Replacing timing belt is something that needs to be done on a regular basis because of its challenging visibility that only mechanics can do. A regular check up can not only help car drivers save a lot, but it can also save the car from incurring additional damages.