The importance of changing your timing belt

Otherwise known as a cambelt, the timing belt is part of an internal combustion engine which synchronises the rotation of the crankshaft and camshaft. This process is vital to the running of the vehicle, as it ensures that the engine’s valves open and close at the correct times during each cylinder’s intake and exhaust strokes. A timing belt is an important component of your car, and securing its working order is crucial to ensure your car gets you from A to B and most importantly, keeps you and other road users safe along your journey. 

Throughout the average lifespan of a domestic vehicle, the timing belt will eventually need replacing. Getting your timing belt replaced primarily depends on mileage, age and the condition of the car, and every manufacturer will have a different agreement. You should ideally renew your Volkswagen / Audi timing belt every 5 years. Call us now on 02084 667849 to find out when your timing belt replacement interval is for your car.

Signs that your timing belt might need checking:

Unfortunately, a timing belt doesn’t give much of a visceral warning before it fails. However, there are a few things you can look out for:

• Ticking noises may come from the engine caused by the belt rubbing against other components in the engine. We recommend that if this happens, turn your engine off immediately and seek help from a mechanic as soon as possible. 

• Your car will not start at all if the timing belt has failed or is damaged.

If you do not replace a timing belt which needs replacing, it could result in a car breakdown or even catastrophic engine failure. Driving with a damaged timing belt can cause detrimental (and expensive) issues if not recognised. Timing belts could snap whilst the vehicle is in motion, which could put yours and other road user’s safety at risk. This is an element which is often overlooked, as many are not aware of the importance of their timing belt, but it is a vital element in the running of your car and should be checked regularly.

If you’d like to get your vehicle checked or need to replace your timing belt, please book in with us by either calling 02084 667849, texting  07517 515 414 or getting in touch via our email address, info@bromleycarrepairs.co.uk