One of the most frequently used technical terms and technical parts in the vehicle is known as the timing belt. This automotive part is actually considered one of the important parts of the mechanical process. Since this part, which works as the vehicle moves continuously, can wear out after a certain period of time, the need for timing belt replacement arises.
What is a Timing Belt?
In fact, this part should be clearly defined before when and how to change the timing belt. This important piece; It is one of the internal components in the engine in terms of the rotation of the cam and the crankshaft in the engine in an equal way and the firing of each of the engine cylinders at the right time. Thanks to this belt, the timing set is obtained by combining with the engine circulation and tensioner bearing.
How Long Is the Timing Set Used?
As mentioned, the timing set is obtained by means of a trio such as belt, recirculation bearing and tensioner bearing. In this trio, especially the belt is the part that wears out the most and generally wears out due to heat. However, timing belt life is not a period of a few months or 1-2 years, but mostly 4 or 5 years depending on the manufacturers.
In fact, it is not possible to set an exact date for timing belt replacement as stated by professionals today. However, an average of 4-5 years of replacement can be achieved by making a decision after periodic maintenance and inspection. Many points such as the region where the vehicle is used, the traffic situation, the approach of the vehicle user and the usage habits have an impact on the timing belt life.
How Many Kilometers Will the Timing Belt Life be Completed?
Instead of talking about a certain time interval for the life of the timing belt, it would be correct to talk about changing it after a few kilometers of use. Because this process may change depending on many factors such as the quality of the vehicle, the model, the condition of the road on which the vehicle is used, how professional the user is or how he despises the vehicle. However, when considered from the point of view of professionals and automotive manufacturers, the timing belt usage mileage is seen between 90-140 thousand kilometers.
Especially in case of buying a second-hand vehicle, timing belt control can be performed by considering how many kilometers the vehicle has done and how tired it is. Basically, when a very new and clean second-hand vehicle is not purchased, performing a belt change without any risk can create a healthier result.
How Much Are Timing Belt Replacement Prices?
Whether you own a car or a second-hand car you bought, you may want to apply timing belt replacement after expert control or with user experience. In this change process, two different operations can be performed, such as changing only the belt or changing the complete set. At this point, prices may differ for belt or set replacement transactions.
Generally, the need for a set change is very rare in vehicles and the most damaged part in the set is the timing belt. At the point of changing the belt, the brand and model of the vehicle is an important factor. Of course, if the labor and service fees in the applied process are also taken into account, the figures can be determined much more clearly.
One of the very important details during timing belt replacement operations is the point of replacing the circulation pump with the belt change. Although many people do not approve of this change, points such as the formation of gaps in the circulation pump or water leaks may cause different problems to occur after belt replacement.
Why Does Car Engine Belt (Timing Chain) Break?
The biggest reason for the engine timing belt or chain break in cars is that it has been used for many years and is worn out. Generally, when the engine belt breaks, it can also damage many important parts in the engine such as the crankshaft, camshaft and valves. That's why second-hand vehicle buyers change the timing set in addition to fluid maintenance to avoid risk.
What Happens If Engine Belt Breaks? Timing Belt or Chain Break
Engine timing belt does not break easily for many years. The mishandling of the vehicle reduces the replacement process, but no matter how clean it is used, it needs to be replaced, especially in heavy maintenance. If the change is not made and it is broken, the vehicle will not work because the mechanism that rotates the gear parts inside the engine is connected to this part. You can think of it like a bicycle chain. This part transfers the pedal movements to the wheel and does not work when it is broken.
How to Tell if Timing Belt or Chain Has Broken?
If the timing belt or timing chain is broken, it can be visibly seen in some brands.
